Toronto Pearson travellers are being warned of a possible measles exposure in March

If you travelled through Toronto Pearson International Airport earlier this month, you might want to check your vaccination records. Toronto Public Health is warning travellers about a possible measles exposure linked to an international flight that landed just before March break.

Officials say that passengers on Air Canada Flight AC 002 from Tokyo to Toronto on Sunday, March 2, or anyone who was in Terminal 1 between 4:50 p.m. and 7:40 p.m. that day, may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.

In a press release shared with Narcity on Wednesday, March 12, Toronto Public Health described measles as a "highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks."

The notice explained that the virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, meaning that even if you weren't in direct contact with someone sick, you could still be at risk.

Toronto Public Health is advising anyone who was at Pearson during that time to check their vaccination records and monitor for symptoms until Sunday, March 23.

Symptoms of measles can take up to 21 days to appear and often start with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A red rash typically follows, beginning on the face and spreading down the body. Small blue-white spots, known as Koplik spots, may also appear inside the mouth and throat.

If symptoms develop, officials recommend calling a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital to help prevent spreading the virus to others. Anyone seeking medical attention should wear a well-fitting, medical-grade mask, such as an N95.

The Government of Canada says most people recover from measles within two or three weeks. However, measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, hearing loss, and, in rare cases, death. Pregnant people face additional risks, including premature delivery and miscarriage.

While cases in Canada remain relatively low, international travel continues to pose a risk for exposure.

Toronto Public Health explains that measles is preventable with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is typically given in two doses — one at 12 months old and a second between the ages of four and six. People born in 1970 or later need both doses for full protection. Those born before then may have natural immunity due to previous exposure when measles was more common in Canada.

Anyone unsure about their vaccination status can safely receive the MMR vaccine or request a blood test to check for immunity. The vaccine is free for eligible adults and is available through primary healthcare providers and some walk-in clinics.

With March Break travel now in full swing for Canadians, now is the time to check your vaccination records and take steps to protect yourself and those around you.

Stay safe, travellers!

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

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