York Region Public Health is alerting residents to potential measles exposure after a confirmed case in a local resident who recently travelled outside of Canada. Six locations across Vaughan and Richmond Hill have been identified as potential exposure sites, prompting a public health investigation and urging individuals to monitor for symptoms. The confirmation of this case underscores the ongoing risk of imported measles and the importance of vaccination, particularly as global travel resumes.
The exposure incidents occurred between February 23 and February 28, 2026, primarily on York Region Transit (YRT) bus routes and at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital. Public health officials are particularly concerned about exposures on Route 16 – 16th Avenue, Route 25 – Major Mackenzie and Route 90B – Leslie, as well as within the Emergency Department of Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital. Anyone who was present at these locations during the specified dates and times is advised to be vigilant for symptoms of measles.
Measles Exposure Locations and Dates
York Region Public Health has released a detailed list of the exposure locations and times. According to a media release, the specific exposure details are as follows:
- Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Emergency Department, 3200 Major Mackenzie Drive West, City of Vaughan: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 3 p.m. To 6:10 p.m.
- York Region Transit (YRT) Bus Route 16 – 16th Avenue (Servicing Richmond Hill and Markham): Monday, February 23, 2026, 6 a.m. To 5 p.m.
- York Region Transit (YRT) Bus Route 25 – Major Mackenzie (Servicing Richmond Hill and Markham): Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 6 a.m. To 5 p.m.
- York Region Transit (YRT) Bus Route 16 – 16th Avenue (Servicing Richmond Hill and Markham): Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 6 a.m. To 5 p.m.
- York Region Transit (YRT) Bus Route 16 – 16th Avenue (Servicing Richmond Hill and Markham): Thursday, February 26, 2026, 6 a.m. To 5 p.m.
- York Region Transit (YRT) Bus Route 90B – Leslie (Servicing Richmond Hill, Markham and Toronto): Friday, February 27, 2026, 5:30 a.m. To 2:30 p.m.
Individuals who may have been exposed should watch for symptoms until March 16-21, 2026, depending on the date of potential exposure, as outlined by York Region Public Health.
Understanding Measles and its Risks
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically commence with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads from the head to the body. Complications from measles can be serious, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death.
The case in York Region acquired measles outside of Canada, highlighting the continued global circulation of the virus. Although Canada has a robust vaccination program, outbreaks can still occur, particularly among unvaccinated individuals or those who have not received two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
What to Do If You Suspect Exposure
If you believe you may have been exposed to measles and are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or emergency department. This allows healthcare professionals to take appropriate precautions to prevent further spread of the virus. Individuals should inform their healthcare provider of their potential exposure history, including the dates and locations of possible contact.
York Region Public Health is actively investigating the case and conducting contact tracing to identify and notify anyone who may have been exposed. The health unit is urging residents to review their immunization records and ensure they are up-to-date with their MMR vaccinations. CTV News reports that public health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination as the most effective way to protect against measles.
Protecting Yourself and the Community
Vaccination remains the cornerstone of measles prevention. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are highly effective in preventing the disease. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status should consult with their healthcare provider. Beyond vaccination, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes, can also help reduce the risk of transmission.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect the community from preventable diseases. Public health officials will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow the guidance of York Region Public Health.
York Region Public Health will provide further updates as the investigation progresses. Residents seeking more information about measles and vaccination can visit the York Region Public Health website or contact their healthcare provider. The next update from York Region Public Health is expected by March 10, 2026.
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