Another case of measles reported on board a flight that landed at Montreal-Trudeau Airport

Public health officials are alerting travelers and airport personnel after a person traveling with measles was identified on a Royal Air Maroc flight that arrived at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport on January 17. Individuals who may have been exposed are being urged to monitor for symptoms of the highly contagious disease.

Exposure Details

Flight Path and Potential Exposure

The individual traveled on Royal Air Maroc flight AT558 from Cotonou, Benin, to Casablanca, Morocco, with an eight-hour layover before continuing on flight AT208 to Montreal. Public health authorities have stated the person was contagious during their travels. Those who were on these flights, or present at Casablanca airport, Montreal-Trudeau airport, and specifically in the baggage carousel area (exit zone 8), are considered contacts of this measles case.

Did You Know? A previous case of measles was identified at Montreal-Trudeau airport on January 8.

Measles Symptoms

The primary symptoms of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, light-sensitive eyes. These initial symptoms are typically followed by the development of a rash, starting on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.

Who is at Risk?

Individuals born before 1970 are generally considered protected against measles. Similarly, those who have received two doses of the measles vaccine are also considered protected. However, certain groups are considered particularly vulnerable.

Expert Insight: Because measles is highly contagious, even potential exposure requires careful monitoring, particularly for those with compromised immune systems or who are unvaccinated. The identification of multiple cases in a short period highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent wider outbreaks.

People who may have been exposed and are not protected, and who are babies under one year old, immunocompromised, or unvaccinated pregnant women, are advised to contact Info-Santé 811 immediately.

Current Outbreak Status

The measles outbreak in Quebec remains active, though the number of confirmed cases is currently stable. As of January 22, nine cases have been confirmed as part of the outbreak, with an additional two cases unrelated to it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I was on flight AT558 or AT208?

People on board these flights are considered contacts of a measles case and should monitor themselves for symptoms.

Who is considered protected from measles?

Individuals born before 1970 and those who have received two doses of the measles vaccine are considered protected against the disease.

What should at-risk individuals do if they think they may have been exposed?

Babies under one year old, immunocompromised individuals, and unvaccinated pregnant women who may have been exposed should call Info-Santé 811 as soon as possible.

Given the contagious nature of measles, what steps can individuals take to protect themselves and their communities?