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Montreal public health officials are urging caution after a traveler infected with measles landed at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport on January 8, following a flight on Air Canada.
Potential Measles Exposure at Montreal Airport and Nearby Locations
Authorities are tracking potential exposures following a confirmed case of measles in a traveler arriving in Montreal.
- The infected individual arrived on Air Canada flight AC 835 on January 8.
- Individuals at the airport arrivals and baggage claim area between 3:51 p.m. and 6:20 p.m. on January 8 may have been exposed.
- Several locations in Montreal were visited by the infected person between January 10 and 13, posing further potential exposure risks.
- Infants under one year old, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women not adequately vaccinated are at higher risk of complications.
The flight in question, AC 835, landed in Montreal on the afternoon of January 8. According to authorities, anyone who was on board the flight or present in the arrivals and baggage section of the airport between 3:51 p.m. and 6:20 p.m. on January 8, 2026, may have been exposed to the measles virus.
What should you do if you think you may have been exposed to measles? Public health officials are advising anyone who was at the identified locations during the specified times to monitor for symptoms and contact Info-Santé 811 if concerns arise.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS) reports that the infected person also visited several locations between January 10 and 13. These include a Super C grocery store, the emergency room and radiology clinic at Verdun Hospital, and a Familiprix. A thorough list of locations, dates, and times is available here.
Did you know?-Measles was declared eliminated in the Americas in 2016. however, outbreaks still occur due to decreased vaccination rates and imported cases, highlighting the importance of maintaining high immunization coverage.
This case is not an isolated incident. A measles outbreak is already underway in the Montreal metropolitan area, with 9 cases confirmed to date in Lanaudière, the Laurentians, Laval, and Montreal. The outbreak began with the initial traveler’s infection, and subsequent cases are believed to be linked to community spread following exposures at the locations visited by the infected individual. Public health is actively tracing contacts to contain the outbreak.
Pro tip-The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective. Two doses provide approximately 97% protection against measles. Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date and consult your doctor if unsure.
Individuals at increased risk of complications from measles include babies under one year of age, people with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women who are not adequately vaccinated. Symptoms typically include fever,cough,runny nose,and a rash that spreads from the head to the body. The infected traveler is currently isolated and receiving medical care. As of January 16, 2026, the outbreak is ongoing, with public health officials continuing to monitor the situation and implement control measures.
Reader question-What are your thoughts on mandatory vaccination policies to prevent outbreaks like this? Share your viewpoint and help us understand community concerns
