Dr. Mark Joffe
The provincial government last week issued an alert regarding the growing number of measles cases in Alberta.
As of March 13, health officials had confirmed six cases of measles in Alberta.
“Measles is not just a mild childhood illness — it is a serious, highly infectious disease that can have devastating consequences,” chief medical officer of health Dr. Mark Joffe said in a news release.
“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.”
Measles is an extremely contagious disease and spreads easily through the air.
People born in or since 1970 who have received fewer than two doses of measles-containing vaccine are susceptible to infection.
Those who have received fewer than two doses of measles-containing vaccine and are pregnant, under one year of age, are adults and/or have a weakened immune system are at most risk of complications from measles.
The measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection and complications.
In Alberta, measles vaccine is offered free of charge to eligible Albertans through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program.
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.
Symptoms of measles include:
- Fever of 38.3 C or higher.
- Cough, runny nose and/or red eyes.
- A red, blotchy rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts, typically beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down the body and then to the arms and legs.
Measles can be dangerous because:
- One in 10 people with measles will get middle ear or lung infections.
- One in 1,000 people with measles will get encephalitis (swelling of the brain), which can lead to seizures, deafness or brain damage.
- One to three of every 1,000 people with measles will die.
- More than 90 per cent of people who are not immune to measles and who come into contact with the virus will become infected.
Albertans uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, can text “vaccine record” to 88111, call Health Link at 811 or contact their local public health office.
For additional information on measles visit www.ahs.ca/measles.
