Alarming Rise in Measles Cases

Alberta is sounding the alarm as the number of confirmed measles cases has surged to 118, including five reported in Calgary alone. This significant increase of 29 cases comes just before the Easter long weekend, highlighting a growing public health concern.

Public Exposure Notification

In a recent announcement, Alberta Health Services (AHS) confirmed multiple exposures in the Taber area. Individuals with confirmed measles were present in several public venues while infectious, triggering a warning for those who may have been in these locations.

Possible Exposure Locations and Times

If you visited any of the following places during the specified dates and times, you may have been exposed to measles: - **April 11 to 12**: Days Inn by Wyndham, Calgary Airport (5 p.m. April 11 to noon April 12) - **April 11**: CrossIron Mills, Rocky View County (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) - **April 11**: Ikea Calgary (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.) - **April 14**: Taber Health Centre, main waiting room (2 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.) - **April 14**: Coaldale Health Centre (5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.) - **April 15**: Taber Health Centre, main waiting room and laboratory (3 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.) - **April 16**: Chinook Regional Hospital, diagnostic imaging (2:55 p.m. to 5:10 p.m.)

Are You at Risk?

AHS urges anyone born after 1970 who has received fewer than two doses of the measles vaccine to check their immunization status. If you were at any of the listed locations during the specified times, monitor for symptoms.

Understanding Measles Symptoms

Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air. Symptoms can start with high fever (38.3°C or above), cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that appears 3 to 7 days after the fever begins. The rash typically starts behind the ears and on the face before spreading down the body.

Take Precautions!

If you develop symptoms, AHS recommends staying home and calling 811 for guidance before visiting a healthcare provider. It's crucial to take these steps seriously—measles can lead to severe complications.

Vaccination: Your Best Defense

AHS stresses the importance of the measles vaccine, which is highly effective. Good news: the vaccine is available for free through Alberta’s public immunization program. The first dose is typically administered at 12 months, with a second dose at 18 months.

Stay informed and protect yourself and your community from measles. This outbreak serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vaccination.