Health officials have confirmed six cases of measles in a northern Alberta household, raising concerns about the potential for further spread as global and national cases continue to climb.
While the cases are contained within one family for now, 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.
Information provided by the Government of Alberta