AHS (Alberta Health Services) released a measles advisory in Edmonton on Wednesday April 25th following the confirmation of a case. Individuals who visited these locations during the outlined timeframes may have been exposed to measles:

• Edmonton International Airport’s international arrivals and baggage claim area between 3:20 p.m. and 6 p.m. on April 16th.
• Stollery Children’s Hospital Emergency Department from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 20th and from 4:40 a.m. to 9:33 a.m. on April 23rd.
• 66th Medical Clinic at 13635 66 St. NW between 12:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on April 22nd.

AHS noted that individuals born after 1970 who have received fewer than two doses of the measles vaccine are at risk of contracting the disease. Pregnant women, children under the age of one, and individuals with compromised immune systems and fewer than two doses are also at a higher risk.

If symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, or a red blotchy rash manifest, it is wise to remain at home and contact Health Link (811). “Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air,” warned AHS. Although no specific treatment exists for measles, immunization can effectively prevent it.

In Alberta, children typically receive their initial measles vaccination at 12 months of age and the second dose at 18 months.