Health Officials Urge Passengers to Monitor Symptoms After Potential Measles Exposure
Toronto Public Health has issued a warning about possible measles exposure at Toronto Pearson International Airport and on two international flights that arrived in Toronto on Feb. 22.
Health officials say the exposure may have occurred in Terminal 1 arrivals between approximately 1:40 p.m. and 4:10 p.m. on that day.
The advisory also includes two flights operated by Avianca:
- Flight AV579 from Guatemala City to San Salvador
- Flight AV324 from San Salvador to Toronto
Measles Highly Contagious
Public health officials warn that measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breathes or talks.
The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, meaning people may become infected even after the infected person has left the area.
What to Do if You May Have Been Exposed
Toronto Public Health advises anyone who may have been at the airport or on the flights during the exposure window to:
- Check their vaccination record for measles protection
- Monitor for symptoms until March 15
Measles symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Red eyes
- A red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads down the body
- Small blue-white spots inside the mouth known as Koplik spots
Vaccination Protection
Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease. In Ontario, people born in 1970 or later are recommended to receive two doses of the measles vaccine, typically given as the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.
Health officials say individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status can safely receive the vaccine or undergo a blood test to determine immunity.
Call Ahead if Symptoms Develop
Anyone who develops symptoms is advised to contact a healthcare provider immediately and call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital so medical staff can take precautions to prevent further spread.
Patients should also wear a medical-grade mask, such as an N95, when seeking medical care.
More information about measles and exposure guidance is available through Toronto Public Health.