Doctors are urging Toronto residents to check their measles vaccination status before their March holiday travel plans due to what the city's chief medical officer described as a "return" of the disease globally.

Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto's medical officer of health, said in a press release issued Wednesday: "With the March holiday approaching, it is a good time for everyone to check their immunization status and ensure they have full vaccination against measles, especially before traveling.

These warnings come amid a global increase in measles outbreaks, including at least five cases reported in Ontario since the beginning of the year. Public health officials said all cases, except one, were linked to recent travel.

Quoting the decline in measles vaccinations worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto Public Health (TPH) said that anyone who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) or the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine, or who has not had measles in the past, is at risk of infection.

Last month, Ontario's chief medical officer warned of a "potential outbreak of measles infection in the province and urged doctors to encourage vaccinations and report any suspected cases."

Dr. Kieran Moore wrote in a February memo: "Although measles is no longer considered endemic in Canada, an outbreak can occur when susceptible individuals (e.g., unvaccinated) travel to countries where measles is widespread and return."

"The resulting importation and local transmission can lead to a measles outbreak in Canada."

Measles vaccination is free in Ontario, and all residents are eligible for vaccination. TPH said school-aged children who need to catch up on their routine vaccinations can book an appointment through the website,

TPH said individuals born before 1970, when measles was widespread, are considered immune to the disease, and those uncertain about previous measles infection are encouraged to receive a dose of the MMR vaccine for best protection.

TPH added that anyone born after 1970 needs two doses of the vaccine, and those unsure of their vaccination status should contact their healthcare provider.

What are the symptoms?

Measles symptoms include:

  High fever

  Cold-like symptoms

  Cough

  Runny nose

  Small white-centered spots inside the mouth

  Eye inflammation

  Sensitivity to light

  A red rash lasting four to seven days

What to do if you get measles

TPH provided the following guidelines on what to do if you think you have measles:

  Seek medical care if symptoms appear, especially after travel or exposure to someone with measles

  Call clinics ahead to take precautionary measures and for testing

  Do not go to work or school

  Be alert for symptoms even if vaccinated against measles

  Follow medical advice immediately for proper care and containment