Province urging public to do what they can to reduce spread of measles

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on March 15, 2025.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

With measles cases increasing globally, the government of Alberta is asking residents to familiarize themselves with symptoms to protect themselves and reduce the spread.

As of March 13, health officials have confirmed six cases of measles in the province. While it is noted that the cases are from a single household, the province expressed concern regarding how contagious the disease is.

“Measles is not just a mild childhood illness – it is a serious, highly infectious disease that can have devastating consequences,” said Dr. Mark Joffe, chief medical officer of health. “Thankfully, we have a highly effective vaccine with a long-proven track record of safety. Everyone should take the time to check their immunization record to ensure they are fully immunized. No one should have to endure the consequences of a disease we can prevent.”

The province continued that people born in or since 1970 who have received fewer than two doses of measles-containing vaccine are susceptible to infection.

Those susceptible who are pregnant, under one year of age, or have a weakened immune system are at most risk of complications from measles.

Symptoms of measles include a fever of 38.3° C or higher, a cough, runny nose or red eyes and a red, blotchy rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts. This rash typically begins behind the ears and on the face and spreads down the body.

“If symptoms of measles do develop, individuals are advised to stay home and call Health Link at 811 before visiting any health care facility or provider, including a family physician clinic or pharmacy,” said the province.

Albertans uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, can text “vaccine record” to 88111, call Health Link at 811 or their local public health office.

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