Alberta Health Services is warning the public of a confirmed case of measles in Red Deer involving an individual who was in a public location while infectious.
Anyone who visited the Tim Hortons/Wendy’s at 100–139 Leva Avenue in Gasoline Alley on July 11 between 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. may have been exposed to the virus.
People born in or after 1970 who have received fewer than two documented doses of measles vaccine are at risk. They are advised to review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms after exposure.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air. Symptoms include:
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Fever of 38.3°C or higher;
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Cough, runny nose or red eyes;
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A rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts, usually beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down to the body and then to the arms and legs.
The rash may look red and blotchy on lighter skin, and can appear darker or purple on darker skin, or be harder to see.
Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, brain inflammation, premature birth, and in rare cases, death. Those most at risk include pregnant individuals, children under five, and people with weakened immune systems.
Anyone who develops symptoms is urged to stay home and call the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any doctor, pharmacy, or hospital.
Measles vaccine is free and highly effective. In Alberta, the routine schedule includes two doses: one at 12 months and a second at 18 months. During the current outbreak in the Central Zone, additional recommendations include:
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Infants 6–11 months: One early dose now, plus two routine doses after age one;
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People born before 1970 who haven’t been vaccinated: Talk to a healthcare provider about getting one dose.
Vaccination within 72 hours of exposure can help prevent measles. For babies under one year, pregnant individuals, and those with severely weakened immune systems, immune globulin may be given within six days of exposure.
For help reviewing your immunization status, booking a vaccine, or getting general measles information:
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Call 1-844-944-3434
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Text "Measles" to 88111
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Visit ahs.ca/measles
Albertans age 14 and older can also check their records through MyHealth Records. More information on routine immunization is available at ahs.ca/immunization or MyHealth.Alberta.ca.
** With information from Alberta Health Services.
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