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Measles cases climb in Alberta as health officials urge vaccination
Alberta is reporting eight new cases of measles, including one in the North Zone, bringing the provincial total to 58 confirmed cases. The outbreak is concentrated in central and southern Alberta, but health officials warn the true number may be higher due to undiagnosed infections. Alberta Health Services says they are working with local communities and contact tracers to limit the spread.
“While the number of cases is concerning, I want to let Albertans know that public health officials are managing the cases and contacts as well as working with local leadership to support affected communities,” said Dr. Mark Joffe, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health. He added that approximately 48 of the confirmed cases are past the period in which they can transmit the virus, but risks remain due to potential exposures and travel-related cases.
Measles is a serious and highly contagious illness, with symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a blotchy red rash that appears three to seven days after the fever starts. It can lead to complications like pneumonia, brain swelling, and in rare cases, death. “Measles is more serious than other common childhood illnesses,” Joffe said. “If you are showing symptoms of measles, stay home and call 811 for further direction.”
Health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination, especially for young children and those at higher risk. “Immunization with measles-containing vaccine is the single most important public health intervention to prevent measles,” said Joffe. “The measles vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing infection and complications.” Albertans are encouraged to visit alberta.ca/measles for regular updates and to check their immunization status.
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