Health authorities in Alberta have issued a public alert after confirming a case of measles in an individual who travelled on a flight arriving in Calgary. The announcement was made on December 1, 2025, raising concerns about potential exposure for fellow passengers.
Details of the Flight and Exposure Risk
The specific details of the flight, including the airline, flight number, and exact date of travel, are being actively communicated by Alberta Health Services to those who may be at risk. Officials are working to contact passengers who were in proximity to the infected individual. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through the air via coughing or sneezing.
Public Health Response and Recommendations
In response to the confirmed case, public health officials are urging all passengers on the affected flight to take immediate steps. They should verify their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination status and be vigilant for symptoms. Common signs of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a distinctive red rash that spreads across the body.
Individuals who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or have compromised immune systems are at the highest risk. Alberta Health advises anyone who develops symptoms to isolate immediately and contact their healthcare provider or Health Link at 811 before visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent further spread.
The Importance of Vaccination
This incident underscores the critical importance of community immunity through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing measles. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing the disease. Health officials are using this event to remind the public that maintaining high vaccination coverage is essential to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
The confirmation of this case comes as health systems across Canada remain vigilant against the resurgence of measles, which has been eliminated in the country but can be re-introduced through international travel. Authorities continue to investigate and monitor the situation closely.
