Urgent Alert: Measles Case in Calgary Sparks Health Warning!

In an alarming turn of events, Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a public health alert following a confirmed case of measles in the Calgary area. This warning aims to prevent further exposure, with officials urging anyone who visited specific locations during the infectious period to be vigilant about their health.

The alert was made public on Friday evening, and a representative from AHS confirmed that a single case has been identified. The infected individual frequented a number of public places, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious virus.

Locations of Concern:

1. **Airdrie Superstore**: 300 Veterans Blvd. NE, Airdrie **Exposure Time**: March 8, 2025, from approximately 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

2. **New Horizon Mall**: Sky Castle Family Entertainment Centre and Cafeteria, 260300 Writing Creek Cresc., Balzak **Exposure Time**: March 9, 2025, from approximately 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

3. **Airdrie Urgent Care**: 604 Main St. S., Airdrie **Exposure Time**: March 11, 2025, from approximately 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

4. **One Health Associate Medical Clinic**: 836 1 Ave. NW, #201, Airdrie **Exposure Time**: March 12, 2025, from approximately 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

AHS advises anyone born in 1970 or later who was at these locations during the indicated times to monitor for symptoms of measles, which can include a cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fever. A telltale sign of infection is a red, blotchy rash that typically begins behind the ears or on the face and spreads down the body, appearing three to seven days after the onset of fever.

Dr. Craig Jenne, a microbiology and infectious diseases professor at the University of Calgary, emphasizes the seriousness of measles, labeling it as one of the most infectious viruses known to medicine. "Measles can linger in the air for hours, posing a threat to unsuspecting individuals who enter the vicinity later," he warns.

The current situation highlights a critical need for vaccination, as 90% of the population must be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity. Sadly, Dr. Jenne notes that many areas in Alberta fall short of this immunity level, enabling the virus to spread rapidly.

If you suspect that you have been exposed to measles, it's imperative to confirm that you've received two doses of the vaccination. Anyone experiencing symptoms should stay home and reach out to Health Link at 811 before seeking medical attention.

Dr. Jenne stresses the importance of not underestimating measles. "Some patients will require hospitalization; tragically, serious complications can arise, as we've seen with recent outbreaks in Ontario and the southern U.S. where fatalities occurred."

Stay informed, stay safe, and make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date to protect yourself and your community from this potentially deadly virus!