Toronto Public Health Warns of Potential Measles Exposure at Pearson International Airport
Toronto – Toronto Public Health (TPH) has issued a warning about potential measles exposure for travellers at Pearson International Airport earlier this week. The advisory comes as TPH investigates a confirmed case of measles linked to international travel.
Passengers on Turkish Airlines Flight TK17 from Istanbul to Toronto, which arrived at Pearson’s Terminal 1 at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 22, are advised to take precautions.
Highly Contagious Virus
Measles is an airborne virus that spreads through droplets when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, posing a significant risk of infection to those who breathe contaminated air or touch affected surfaces and then their face.
What to Do if Exposed
TPH has outlined specific steps for those who may have been exposed to the virus:
- Check Vaccination Status
Measles is preventable through vaccination. The MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine is typically administered at 12 months, with a second dose between the ages of four and six. Individuals born after 1970 require two doses for full protection, while those born before 1970 may have natural immunity from previous exposure.Those unsure about their vaccination status are encouraged to get vaccinated, as it is safe to receive the MMR vaccine even if already immune. Alternatively, a blood test can confirm immunity.
- Monitor for Symptoms Until February 12, 2025
Symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, a red rash that starts on the face and spreads, and small blue-white spots (Koplik spots) in the mouth or throat. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a health care provider immediately.To prevent further spread, TPH advises calling ahead before visiting any clinic or hospital to allow staff to prepare. Those seeking medical assessment are urged to wear a well-fitting mask, such as an N95.
Routine Vaccinations and Additional Resources
School-aged children who need to catch up on vaccinations can book appointments with their primary health care provider or at TPH community clinics via TPH bookings. Vaccines are also available to eligible adults through primary care and some walk-in clinics at no cost.
For detailed information on measles and prevention, visit the City of Toronto’s measles fact sheet at toronto.ca/measles-fact-sheet.
TPH is closely monitoring the situation and encourages anyone who may have been exposed to remain vigilant about symptoms and take appropriate action.
SOURCES City of Toronto