A recent case of measles at the Edmonton International Airport has triggered a public health advisory alerting travelers about potential exposure to the highly contagious disease. Alberta Health Services issued the alert last week, stating that the exposure occurred on a December 2 flight from Toronto Pearson Airport to Edmonton International Airport.
Passengers on Air Canada Flight 171 during that flight may have been exposed to measles and are at risk of contracting the illness. Additionally, individuals present in the airport’s baggage claim area from 7:10 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. on the same day are also potentially exposed.
Those who were in the mentioned locations at the specified times, born in or after 1970, and have received less than two doses of the measles vaccine or have never had measles should take extra precautions. It is advised to self-monitor for symptoms and review immunization records.
If symptoms develop, individuals should stay home and contact the measles hotline before visiting any healthcare facility. Measles, being highly contagious, spreads easily through the air and presents symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash.
The confirmed measles case at the airport is part of a series of alerts issued in recent months due to outbreaks across Canada and a resurgence of infections in Alberta. The virus, previously eliminated in Canada in 1998, has seen a comeback due to declining vaccination rates in Alberta and nationwide.
Alberta has reported 1,985 measles cases since March 2025, with the highest numbers in the north, south, and central health zones. The measles vaccine is available free of charge in the province, and individuals who may have been exposed are recommended to receive a dose within 72 hours to prevent infection. Babies under 1 year and those with weakened immune systems may receive immunoglobulin within 6 days of exposure to prevent disease.
