Measles exposure reported at Toronto Pearson Airport

The public may have been exposed to the measles virus at Toronto Pearson Airport in Mississauga.

Anyone in the airport on June 13 could have come in contact with a person with the virus, Peel Public Health said on X on Sunday.

People on two flights — ET552 Addis Ababa to Toronto and Air Canada AC410 Toronto to Montreal or in Terminal at Pearson Airport, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.— could have been exposed to the virus, Peel Public Health said.

Peel Public Health contacts people who were at exposure sites if possible, but advises anyone who was at these sites or thinks they have been exposed to measles to check their immunization record to confirm they and their family members are up to date with measles vaccinations. Those who are unsure can check with their health care provider.

Two doses are generally recommended for anyone born in or after 1970. In general, those born before 1970 are considered protected against measles.

Anyone experiencing measles symptoms should contact their health care provider, or if not available, their local public health unit as soon as possible to get advice. Do not attend work or school. Before going to see your health care provider, inform them you may have been in contact with someone who has measles.

“Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily to those who are not immunized or have not previously had measles,” Peel Public Health said.

Measles symptoms begin seven to 21 days after infection and may include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis, i.e. pink eye), sensitivity to light, and a red rash lasting from four to seven days (starting on the face and spreading downward).

Peel Public Health said the risk of getting measles in the region is low, but it is still important to stay informed.

Peel Public Health continues to monitor the situation in Peel and investigates every new case.

For questions, call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or 1-888-919-7800 (toll-free). Phones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

For more information, visit Health Ontario.