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Ottawa Public Health issued a measles exposure warning on October 8, 2026, naming eight city businesses visited by two infected residents between October 1 and 3, according to reports.
The exposure sites include Tim Hortons locations on Hawthorne Road and Lancaster Road, the Independent Grocer and Rexall in Elmvale, Metro on Walkley Road, Subway on Hawthorne, McDonald’s on St. Laurent, and Ruby’s in the ByWard Market. Anyone who visited those locations during the specified times should monitor for symptoms for 21 days, until about October 22–24.
The two Ottawa residents were infected while outside Ontario, health officials said, and the general risk to the public remains low. Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes — which is why public health units issue location-based alerts even when overall risk is limited.
Symptoms can include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a characteristic red blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward. The illness can be serious, particularly for infants, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems.
Public health units across Ontario have been on heightened alert for measles amid sporadic cases this year. Officials continue to urge residents to check that their vaccinations are up to date, noting that two doses of measles-containing vaccine are highly effective at preventing infection.
Anyone who develops symptoms is advised to call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital so precautions can be taken to prevent further spread — and to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.
Ottawa Public Health has posted the full list of exposure dates and times on its website, and is asking anyone who may have been exposed to check their immunization records. Those born after 1970 who have not had two documented doses are encouraged to contact their health-care provider.
