Public Health Warning in Alberta

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a critical alert regarding potential measles exposure linked to a confirmed case in the Calgary area. This warning comes after an individual was active in multiple locations across Calgary, Banff, and Canmore while potentially contagious.

Locations of Concern

Between April 6 and April 11, the individual frequented these spots: - **Save-On-Foods**, 950 Railway Avenue, Canmore, on April 6 from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. - **Delmar College of Hair and Esthetics**, 5915 – 1a Street S.W., Calgary, from April 7 to 10, between 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. - **Banff – Lux Cinema**, 229 Bear Street, Banff, on April 11 from 4 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. - **Bow Valley Five Pin and Pints**, Fairmont Banff Springs, 405 Spray Avenue, Banff, on April 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Who is At Risk?

Provincial health authorities are alerting residents who visited these locations, especially those born in 1970 or earlier, or those who have received fewer than two doses of the measles vaccine. This group faces a heightened risk of contracting this highly contagious virus.

Complications Can Be Serious

Dr. Mark Joffe, Alberta's Chief Medical Health Officer, has emphasized that individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and children under two years are particularly vulnerable to severe complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.

What You Should Do

If you believe you may have been exposed, AHS urges you to contact Alberta Health Link at 811 and monitor for symptoms. Measles symptoms generally include a fever above 38.3°C, alongside a cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A distinctive rash typically appears three to seven days after the fever starts, beginning behind the ears and spreading downwards.

Current Situation in Alberta

As of Tuesday morning, Alberta has reported **77 confirmed measles cases** statewide, with the most affected region being central Alberta, which accounts for 41 cases. The south region follows with 18, while the north has 10. Both Edmonton and Calgary have reported four cases each.

Prevention is Key!

Fortunately, measles is highly preventable through vaccination, which is offered free of charge throughout Alberta. If you haven’t been vaccinated, now is the time to take action to protect yourself and those around you.