Canada Staycation Health Advisory: COVID‑19 & Measles Level 1 Notices – What Canadians Should Know
Travelling domestically—even to your own backyard—can carry infectious disease risks. Canada’s Public Health Agency (PHAC) currently lists Level 1 travel health notices for both COVID‑19 and Measles, reminding Canadians that even staycations call for vigilance and basic health measures.
🌡️ What Does Level 1 Mean?
PHAC defines Level 1 – “Practise ordinary health precautions” for COVID‑19 and Measles, applicable everywhere—including within Canada. The agency lists COVID‑19 as Level 1 for all countries globally as of May 12, 2025. Its measles notice, updated 12 May 2025 on travel.gc.ca, also sits at Level 1 . These notices underscore a simple message: normal hygiene and being up‑to‑date on vaccinations are still important.
💉 Why the Notices Matter on Staycations
- COVID‑19
While the acute pandemic phase has passed, COVID‑19 variants continue to circulate. PHAC recommends completing the latest vaccine series—including boosters—at least 14 days before travel, even within Canada. If symptoms appear, it’s advised to delay travel and wear a well‑fitting mask in public or enclosed spaces to limit transmission. - Measles
Measles, an extremely contagious virus, remains present in communities worldwide. Canada has seen significant outbreaks this year—over 3,170 cases nationally as of early June, with a concentrated cluster in Ontario. Despite being once declared eliminated, the disease persists—especially in communities with low vaccination rates.
PHAC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for those born in 1970 or later; one dose may suffice for earlier birth cohorts. Infants aged six months or older may receive an early dose if at risk.
🧼 Staycation Safety: What to Do
- Hygiene basics: Wash hands, use hand‑sanitiser, and avoid touching your face.
- Mask up if needed: Wear a well-fitting respirator in crowded indoor settings or in the presence of high-risk individuals.
- Vaccination check: Confirm booster status for COVID‑19 and MMR vaccine doses. Don’t delay—routine immunisation remains crucial.
- Know the symptoms:
- COVID‑19: fever, cough, sore throat
- Measles: fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, rash
- Act fast if symptomatic: Isolate immediately, wear a mask, and call your healthcare provider. For measles, PHAC advises limiting contact and notifying airlines or border officers if symptoms arise while in transit.
✈️ Domestic Travel Doesn’t Mean No Risk
It’s a common misconception that diseases like COVID‑19 or measles only threaten international travellers. However, both viruses are still circulating—even within Canada. The recent Ontario outbreak, tied to pockets of unvaccinated populations, is a sobering example. By maintaining basic precautions, staycationers can help curb further spread and prioritise their health.
✅ Key Takeaways
| What | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Maintain hygiene | Prevent infection and transmission |
| Update vaccines | Protect against serious disease (especially measles) |
| Mask if unwell | Lower risk to others, especially vulnerable people |
| Seek care if sick | Early action helps treatment and limits spread |
Even local staycations deserve the same level of care as overseas travel. Level 1 notices may seem mild, but they signal an ongoing need for vigilance. By practising routine hygiene, staying vaccinated, and responding promptly to symptoms, we can all enjoy safe and healthy summer adventures—right here at home.