Measles case confirmed in Saskatchewan

A syringe is seen in this undated file photo. (AP / Donovan Quintero)

An unimmunized infant who travelled to Saskatchewan by air from the Philippines may have exposed several passengers to measles.

Saskatchewan health officials confirmed the case of measles in a press release Friday. They said the infant’s family travelled to Vancouver Jan. 2, then to Calgary and Regina Jan. 7.

“Measles cases are quite uncommon in Saskatchewan, but this situation underscores the importance of vaccinations,” Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer Denise Werker said. “The risk of exposure to highly contagious diseases can be particularly high during busy travel seasons, for people travelling within Canada as well as to and from countries experiencing measles outbreaks.”

Measles is a potentially serious and highly infectious disease. Symptoms include high fever, cough and runny nose, followed by a rash. The infant is receiving treatment and recovering.

The health ministry encouraged passengers who were on the flight with the infant and who develop symptoms to seek medical advice — especially if they have not been immunized.

Officials also advised families to check their immunization records before travelling overseas. Measles occurs more frequently in countries outside of the Americas.

The flights the infant travelled on are:

Thursday, Jan. 2:

-          Philippine Airlines PR116 — Manila to Vancouver (Arrived 16:30)

Tuesday, Jan. 7:

-          West Jet 544 — Vancouver to Calgary (Departed 08:00, Arrived 10:25)

-          WestJet 314 — Calgary to Regina (Departed 12:05, Arrived 14:30)