A recent case of measles at the Edmonton International Airport has led to a public health advisory cautioning travelers about potential exposure to the highly contagious disease. Alberta Health Services issued the alert last week, indicating that the exposure occurred on a flight on December 2, which departed from Toronto Pearson Airport at 2:50 p.m. and landed at the Edmonton International Airport at 7:10 p.m.
Passengers on Air Canada Flight 171 during that time frame are advised that they may have been exposed to measles and could be at risk of contracting the infection. Additionally, individuals present in the airport’s baggage claim area between 7:10 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. on the same day are also potentially at risk.
Those who were at these locations and times, born in or after 1970 with fewer than two measles vaccinations or no prior measles infection, are urged to take extra precautions. It is recommended that they self-monitor for symptoms and review their immunization records promptly.
Should any symptoms manifest, individuals are instructed to stay at home and contact the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before seeking medical assistance. Measles is highly contagious, spreading easily through the air, with symptoms including 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 recently due to outbreaks nationwide and a resurgence of infections in Alberta. Despite being declared eliminated in Canada in 1998, declining vaccination rates have contributed to its reemergence in the country.
Since March 2025, Alberta has reported a total of 1,985 measles cases, with the highest numbers in specific health zones. The measles vaccine is readily available in Alberta at no cost for eligible individuals. Those who may have been exposed and are unvaccinated are advised to receive a dose within 72 hours to prevent infection. Infants under 1 year old and individuals with compromised immune systems may receive immunoglobulin within 6 days of exposure as a preventive measure.
