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“Health Alert: Potential Measles Outbreak at Pearson Airport Linked to Two Recent Flights, Warns Peel Health Officials”

Peel Region Health Officials Warn of Measles Exposure on Flights and at Pearson Airport

Peel Region’s public health authorities are alerting the community to potential exposure to a confirmed case of measles on recent flights and at Pearson International Airport.

Peel Public Health has identified that individuals who were on Flight BG305 from Bangladesh to Toronto, with a stopover in Rome, as well as Flight AC1986 from Toronto to Moncton on July 7, and who visited Terminals 3 and 1 at Pearson Airport between 1:11 p.m. and 11:45 p.m., may have come into contact with the virus.

Individuals who suspect exposure to measles are advised to confirm their vaccination status and remain vigilant for symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and rashes until July 28. Symptoms may manifest within seven days of exposure.

Dr. Atiba Nelson, Associate Medical Officer of Health for Peel Region, emphasized the rapid spread of measles, particularly among unvaccinated individuals, despite the low overall risk in Peel.

Measles is contagious through respiratory droplets and can linger in the air or on surfaces for over two hours, highlighting the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.

This marks the second measles case in Peel Region this year, contributing to a total of 27 reported cases across Ontario by June 23.