A case of measles has been confirmed in Montreal on April 28, 2026. The Montreal Regional Public Health Department stated that the infected person — who resides outside the metropolis — visited several busy locations during their contagious period. If you were in one of these places on the dates and times indicated, you should check your vaccination status and monitor for symptoms.
Exhibition venues and dates to watch
Public Health of Montreal has identified three potential places of contact:
- Indoor Golf Le Birdie Rosemont
2520 Saint-Joseph Boulevard East, Suite 204, Montreal
April 17, from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM - Montreal Casino
1 Casino Avenue, Montreal
April 18th, from midnight to 5:30 AM - Suites Saint-François-Xavier (SFX Old Port)
438 Saint-François-Xavier Street, Montreal
April 17th from 10 PM to 11:59 PM; April 18th from midnight to 1 AM and from 4 AM to noon
If you were present in either of these locations during the times mentioned, please read the rest of this article carefully.
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the Morbillivirus. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets and by contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can remain suspended in the air of a room for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, making it one of the most transmissible infectious diseases.
Measles is preventable through vaccination. In Quebec, the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine has been offered free of charge in the regular vaccination schedule for several decades. A person who has received two doses is considered more than 97% protected %.
Measles Symptoms: What to Watch For
The incubation period for measles is typically 10 to 14 days after exposure. The initial symptoms resemble those of a severe cold:
- High fever (often above 38.5°C)
- Abundant nasal discharge
- Dry, persistent cough
- Conjunctivitis (red and watery eyes)
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Appearance of small white spots inside the cheeks (Koplik's spots)
Two to four days after the initial symptoms, a characteristic rash appears. It usually begins behind the ears and on the face before spreading down the body. Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, or middle ear infection, particularly in infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
What would you do if you were in one of those places?
The steps to follow depend on your vaccination status:
If you received two doses of the MMR vaccine
You are protected. No immediate action is required. However, remain vigilant and consult a doctor if suggestive symptoms appear within two weeks of exposure.
If you have received only one dose, or if you are unvaccinated
Contact your doctor or CLSC as soon as possible to receive a booster dose of vaccine or immunoglobulin, depending on your situation. The sooner the intervention, the more effective it is. Vaccination within 72 hours of exposure can prevent the illness.
If you have symptoms
Do not go directly to a clinic or emergency room without calling first. Call 811 (Info-Santé) or your family doctor for instructions tailored to your situation. This helps prevent spreading the virus to other patients.
Many Quebecers do not have easy access to their vaccination record. Here's how to find it:
- Check your paper vaccination record if you have one.
- Contact your local CLSC: they generally hold vaccination records.
- Check your medical file with your family doctor.
- Consult the Quebec Vaccination Record (CVQ) accessible via your Mon dossier Santé Québec account.
When in doubt, receiving an extra dose of RRO is safe. One dose too many causes no problems; one dose missed can lead to serious complications.
Measles is on the rise in Canada and around the world
This Montreal case is part of a global resurgence of measles. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Public Health Agency of Canada report an increase in cases in several countries, fueled in part by insufficient vaccination coverage in some communities. Travelers are a significant vector of transmission, hence the importance of checking your protection before any travel abroad.
If you have concerns about your vaccination status or have been exposed to a case of measles, our medical teams can assist you, either in person at a clinic or via teleconsultation. A consultation allows you to receive a personalized assessment, verify your vaccination needs, and obtain recommendations tailored to your situation.
Omicron Clinic
Need to consult a doctor?
Treatment within 24-48 hours. In-clinic or telemedicine, anywhere in Quebec.
Insurance receipts. 7j/7. No family doctor required.
