Officials Warn Travellers of Potential Measles Exposure at Pearson Airport

Toronto: Health officials are sounding the alarm for anyone who was at Toronto Pearson International Airport recently. They’re warning about possible measles exposure.

Earlier this week, Toronto Public Health announced they’re looking into a measles case tied to international travel. It seems the potential exposure happened on Turkish Airlines Flight TK17, which came in from Istanbul on Wednesday evening.

Measles is super contagious. It spreads through the air when someone who’s infected breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. So, if you were at the airport and came into contact with contaminated air or surfaces, you could be at risk.

If you think you might have been exposed, check your vaccination records. It’s important to know if you’re immunized and to keep an eye out for symptoms until February 12.

The measles vaccine is usually given at 12 months old, with a second dose between four and six years. If you haven’t had both doses or had measles before, you’re more likely to get sick.

Symptoms to watch for include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads. There can also be small blue-white spots in the mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to a healthcare provider right away.