THUNDER BAY — The first case of measles seen in the city in 28 years was confirmed on Friday.
The individual acquired the infection through international travel, according to a media release issued by Thunder Bay District Health Unit Friday afternoon.
A public health investigation is unfolding.
The health unit is warning of possible exposure to measles for travellers on the evening of Sunday, May 4.
Anyone on Air Canada Flight AC1195 from Toronto to Thunder Bay, between 9:40 p.m. and 11 p.m., or at the Thunder Bay airport between 11 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. could have been exposed to the virus.
"Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread easily to others through the air," said the health unit.
Follow up is underway and the health unit will inform the public as information becomes available about any further exposure locations, notably healthcare settings.
The person who is confirmed to have contracted the measles is recovering at home.
The health unit has said it is following up with known contacts, with a focus those who are at a higher risk.
The risk to the general public is low according to the health unit.
The health unit is advising anyone who may have been exposed on the flight to monitor for symptoms until May 25.
Anyone born in 1970 or later should also check their vaccination status. To be considered protected, two doses of the measles vaccine are needed.
Symptoms can include fever, runny nose, cough and red eyes. Small spots with white centres may appear inside the mouth. A red blotchy rash appears on the face then spreads down the body, three to seven days after symptoms begin.
More information is available on the health unit's measles webpage.
