Toronto Public Health advising residents of potential measles exposure

Toronto Public Health (TPH) is reporting a case of measles in a person who works in the city, with members of the public possibly being exposed at the following locations on Friday, March 21:

• Pizzeria Libretto, 155 University Ave., from approximately 11:50 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• VIA Rail Canada Train 82, Train Car 3 from London to Toronto, from approximately 6:05 to 10:50 a.m.
• VIA Rail Canada Train 83, Train Car 3 from Toronto to London, from approximately 4:10 to 8:30 p.m.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks. The virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. People can become infected if they breathe contaminated air or touch an infected surface, then touch their eyes, nose or mouth.

This year, TPH has confirmed two cases of measles linked to travel outside Canada. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at any of the above locations are advised to do the following:

1. Check vaccination record for measles protection
   Measles is a vaccine preventable disease. The vaccine is typically given at 12 months of age, with a second dose given between four to six years of age. Anyone who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine or has not had measles disease is at risk of infection. The vaccine is free for eligible adults through primary care and some walk-in clinics. People born in 1970 or later require two doses of the measles vaccine for the best protection if they have not had the virus. Anyone born before 1970 may have had a measles infection when the virus was common in Canada. Anyone unsure about their vaccination status can safely receive the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. A blood test can also be done to determine immunity.
2. Monitor for symptoms until Friday, April 11
   Symptoms can include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, a red rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body and small blue-white spots (Koplik spots) that can appear on the inside of the mouth and throat. Stay alert for symptoms even if you have been vaccinated against measles. If symptoms develop, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital and let them know you may have measles to allow them to prepare and prevent the spread of the virus. Wear a well-fitting mask when getting a medical assessment.  More information about measles is available on the City of Toronto’s website.

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