February 8, 2019 -
People in the following areas of Pearson Airport on January 27, 2019 may have been exposed to a confirmed case of measles:
- Lufthansa flight LH-470, from Frankfurt to Toronto (Pearson Airport, arrival at 4:08 pm)
- Air Canada flight AC-834 or LH-6829, from Toronto to Montreal (Pearson Airport, departure at 6:00 pm)
- Pearson International Airport (Terminal 1) on January 27, 2019 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
All individuals who may have been exposed are advised to do the following:
- Check your immunization record: Make sure you and your family members are up to date with the measles vaccination (noted as the “MMR” or “MMRV” on records). Two doses are recommended for anyone born after 1969. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, please check with your health care provider. In general, those born before 1970 are considered immune against measles.
- Watch for signs and symptoms: Symptoms of measles can appear up to 21 days after exposure. These include a high fever, cold-like symptoms (cough/runny nose), sore eyes or sensitivity to light, small spots with a white centre on the inside of the mouth, and a red rash lasting four to seven days.
- Reduce the risk of spreading to others: If you think you may have measles and need to see a health care provider, you must call ahead to inform them that you may have been exposed. This will allow health care staff to take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of infection and protect others visiting the office, clinic or hospital.
“If you were at Pearson Airport at the time and places mentioned and are unaware of your immunization status you should speak with your health care provider,” said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, Associate Medical Officer of Health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. “Measles is highly contagious. Make sure you are protecting yourself and those you care for by being up to date with your immunizations.”
The efficacy of a single dose of measles-containing vaccine given at 12 or 15 months of age is estimated to be 85% to 95%. With a second dose, efficacy in children approaches 100%. Protection from measles, mumps and rubella after getting the vaccine is life-long. Vaccination also makes these diseases milder for those who may catch them.
Media Contact:
Chuck Ferguson, Communications Manager
1-800-265-7293 ext. 4374
chuck.ferguson@wdgpublichealth.ca