Vancouver Coastal Health is warning passengers on a flight from Beijing to Vancouver could be at risk of getting measles. An individual who was on Air China flight CA991 from Beijing arriving in Vancouver March 3rd at 9:30 a.m. developed symptoms of measles after their arrival. This person was infectious during the flight.

Measles rash Image/CDC
Measles rash
Image/CDC

Anyone on this flight, or who was in the international arrivals area at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) around 9:30 a.m. March 3rd, should make sure they are up to date with their measles vaccinations. Those who are not fully immunized can get a vaccine for free at their doctor’s office, local Public Health unit or at a walk-in-clinic.

Related: How contagious is measles? Answer: Very 

Vancouver health officials advise passengers to be on the alert for the following symptoms until Mar. 24: fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, or pink eye and/or a red rash.

People who develop these symptoms should see a doctor. Please call your doctor’s office before you go, and tell them that you think you or your child may have measles. This will allow your doctor to take precautions to protect other patients.

The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, or MMR, which most people in B.C. have received, is safe and effective. Some young adults and those born outside Canada may not be completely immunized against measles.

  • People born before 1957 are considered immune to measles, and do not need a vaccine
  • Those born between 1957 and 1970 should have one dose of MMR if they have not had measles
  • Those born after 1970 should have two doses of MMR
  • These vaccines must be received after their first birthday to be effective

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