Alberta Health Services is warning the public of potential measles exposure in Calgary following confirmation of a case involving a person who visited public locations while infectious.
AHS says the individual was present at Calgary International Airport on June 25 at two locations:
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Domestic Arrivals Gate A17 from approximately 8:10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
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Domestic Departures Gate C55, including WestJet flight 630 to Charlottetown, from approximately 8:50 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Individuals born in or after 1970 who have fewer than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine may be at risk of infection and are advised to self-monitor for symptoms and review their immunization history.
As of June 26, a total of 1,105 confirmed measles cases have been reported across Alberta. Of those, 1,085 are past their period of communicability and 20 are considered active.
The South Zone continues to report the highest number of cases with 719 confirmed infections, followed by the North Zone with 249, Central with 106, Calgary with 22, and Edmonton with nine.
Measles is affecting all age groups:
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319 cases have been reported in children under five,
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494 in those aged five to 17,
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287 in adults aged 18 to 54, and
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five in people 55 and older.
Two individuals were hospitalized as of June 25, including one in intensive care. Alberta Health notes the data do not include undiagnosed cases or those under federal jurisdiction, and do not reflect the number of persons exposed to measles.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus. Common symptoms include a fever of 38.3°C or higher, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that typically appears three to seven days after the onset of fever. The rash usually starts behind the ears and spreads to the face, body, arms, and legs. It may appear red and blotchy on lighter skin, or purple or darkened on darker skin tones, and can sometimes be difficult to see.
Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, encephalitis, premature delivery, and, in rare cases, death. Those at greatest risk include young children, people who are pregnant, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
AHS advises anyone who develops symptoms to stay home and call the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting a healthcare provider, clinic, or pharmacy.
Measles vaccine is provided free of charge in Alberta and is recommended at 12 months and 18 months of age. Adults uncertain of their immunization history are encouraged to confirm their records through MyHealth Records or the measles hotline.
For individuals who have been exposed and are not protected, post-exposure immunization may reduce the risk of illness if administered within 72 hours. In some cases, immunoglobulin can be given within six days of exposure.
Text “Measles” to 88111 to receive health information directly to your mobile device. The hotline also provides help with booking vaccine appointments and locating clinics offering immunization.
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