More measles cases confirmed as Immunization Awareness Week arrives

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on April 19, 2025.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

With Immunization Awareness Week beginning Monday and ongoing cases of measles present in the province, Alberta Health Services issued a statement encouraging residents to get immunized.

“With measles cases identified in Alberta, the best protection is to ensure you are up to date with your immunizations,” said AHS. “The MMR-Var vaccine is given as part of Alberta’s routine immunization schedule for children and is free. It protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.”

AHS did notify new outlets regarding further cases of measles confirmed within the Taber and Lethbridge areas at the following times:

April 8

Taber Health Centre

Main waiting room, lab and X-ray

Exposure time: Approx. 3:15-5:30 p.m.

April 11

Costco Lethbridge

Exposure time: Approx. 3:30-7 p.m.

Walmart Lethbridge

Exposure time: Approx. 5-8 p.m.

“Anyone who attended these locations at these times, who was born in or after 1970 and has less than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine, is at risk for developing measles,” said AHS. “They should self-monitor themselves of symptoms of measles and are strongly encouraged to review their immunization records.”

Symptoms of Measles include a fever of 38.3° C or higher, cough, runny nose or red eyes and

A rash that appears 3 to 7 days after fever starts, usually beginning behind the ears and on the face. Complications of measles can include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery and in rare cases death.

If symptoms of measles develop, or residents have questions about immunization, they are encouraged to call HealthLink at 811 for instructions and information.

Following a measles exposure, vaccine given within 72 hours can prevent infection, said AHS. There are also options for those who cannot safely receive a vaccine, such as immune globulin.

Albertans uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, can text ‘vaccine record’ to 88111 or call Health Link. For further information on routine childhood immunization, visit ahs.ca/immunization.

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