Health officials have confirmed six cases of measles in a northern Alberta household in addition to a case in the Airdrie area, raising concerns about the potential for further spread as global and national cases continue to climb.
Measles is highly contagious, and health experts are urging Albertans to confirm they are fully vaccinated to help prevent the disease’s spread.
"Measles is not just a mild childhood illness – it is a serious, highly infectious disease that can have devastating consequences," said Dr. Mark Joffe, Alberta’s chief medical officer of health. "Thankfully, we have a highly effective vaccine with a long-proven track record of safety. Everyone should take the time to check their immunization record to ensure they are fully immunized."
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes, and the virus can linger in a room for up to two hours. People can be contagious before showing symptoms, which typically appear one to three weeks after exposure.
To prevent the spread of measles, health officials recommend ensuring that everyone is up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is highly effective at protecting against measles, mumps, and rubella and is typically administered in two doses. In Alberta, children receive their first dose at 12 months and the second at 18 months.
The MMR vaccine is available through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program, and is also recommended for adults who may not have received both doses, particularly those who travel outside of Canada or to areas within Canada where measles is circulating. Those born before 1970 may already have natural immunity to measles, but health officials recommend checking immunization records and getting vaccinated if necessary, especially for healthcare workers, students, and travelers.
People most at risk for severe complications include infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Measles can cause serious complications such as lung infections, brain swelling, and, in rare cases, death.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the body. If you develop symptoms, stay home and call Health Link at 811 before visiting a healthcare facility to avoid spreading the virus.
For further information on routine childhood immunization, visit ahs.ca/immunize.
For additional information on measles disease, please visit www.ahs.ca/measles.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) is warning the public about a potential measles exposure in Airdrie and Balzac after a confirmed case was reported in the area.
Potential Exposure Locations:
Individuals who were at the following locations during the specified times may have been exposed to measles:
- Superstore (300 Veterans Blvd. N.E., Airdrie) – March 8, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- New Horizon Mall (Sky Castle Family Entertainment Centre, cafeteria, 260300 Writing Creek Cres., Balzac) – March 9, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- Airdrie Urgent Care (604 Main St. S., Airdrie) – March 11, 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- One Health Associate Medical Clinic (#201 836 1 Ave. N.W., Airdrie) – March 12, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Anyone who was at these locations during the specified times and was born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine is at risk.
These individuals are advised to check their immunization records and monitor for symptoms.
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