As the summer travel season approaches and the movement of travelers through airports and transportation hubs increases, public health experts warn of the heightened risk of measles, especially in crowded indoor spaces that experience a large influx of people coming from different parts of the world.

According to CTV News, measles is one of the most contagious and widespread diseases in the world, with the virus capable of remaining in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Just a few minutes of being in the same place as an unvaccinated person can lead to infection.

Who is most at risk?

Unvaccinated individuals or those who have not received the complete two doses of the measles vaccine (MMR).

Young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Travelers to areas where measles outbreaks are occurring, including some European and Asian countries.

Why are airports risky?

Health authorities indicate that airports are classified as high-risk points due to:

Direct mixing between travelers from different countries.

Congestion in customs lines and checkpoints.

Limited ventilation in some corridors and shared areas.

Several cases of infection in Canada have been reported in recent months originating from international airports, with transmissions traced back to unvaccinated travelers.

What do experts recommend?

Ensure vaccination, especially for children and adults who have not received the second dose.

Wear masks in highly crowded places.

Wash and sanitize hands regularly, and avoid touching the face.

Consult a doctor or health clinic before traveling, especially if the destination is a country experiencing a measles outbreak.

The stance of Canadian authorities

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has recommended that travelers check their vaccination status before leaving the country, emphasizing that measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, despite the availability of an effective vaccine over 97% when the two doses are received.