Measles Exposure Warnings Issued Following Confirmed Cases in Calgary and Northern Alberta

Alberta Health Officials Warn of Measles Exposure in Calgary and Northern Communities

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued advisories alerting the public to potential measles exposure following confirmed cases in the Calgary area and northern Alberta.

Potential Exposure in Calgary Area

AHS reported that an individual with measles was in public while infectious, potentially exposing others at the following locations:

• Airdrie Superstore (300 Veterans Boulevard N.E.) – March 8, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

• Sky Castle Family Entertainment Centre & Cafeteria (New Horizon Mall, Balzac) – March 9, noon to 3 p.m.

• Airdrie Urgent Care – March 11, 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• One Health Associate Medical Clinic – March 12, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Measles Outbreak in Northern Alberta

Health officials have also confirmed a measles outbreak in John D’Or Prairie, part of the Little Red River Cree Nation, with six cases. While all affected individuals have recovered, the risk remains. Mobile vaccination clinics continue to provide immunizations in the community.

A separate advisory warns of confirmed cases near Fort Vermilion, where individuals may have been exposed at St. Theresa General Hospital (including the emergency, acute care, and pediatric units) from February 15 to March 9. AHS has responded by setting up drop-in immunization clinics in Fort Vermilion and High Level.

Health Risks and Vaccine Coverage Concerns

Measles is one of the most contagious airborne diseases, raising concerns about further transmission. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination, as Alberta’s immunization rates have declined in recent years. In 2023, only 69.3% of Alberta children were fully vaccinated with two doses by age two, with some regions falling below 50%.

University of Calgary professor Craig Jenne attributes this decline to vaccine hesitancy, fatigue, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He warns that low immunization rates increase the risk of outbreaks, not just for measles but for other preventable diseases.

Global and Travel-Related Risks

Measles cases have been rising across Canada and the U.S., including a recent outbreak in Texas. Experts warn that measles can easily spread through travel. Dr. Jared Bullard from the University of Manitoba notes that many people—including healthcare providers—haven’t seen measles outbreaks in years, making it difficult to recognize symptoms.

What to Do If You May Have Been Exposed

Anyone born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented doses of the measles vaccine may be at risk. AHS encourages people to review their vaccination records and monitor for symptoms, including:

• Fever

• Cough

• Red eyes

• Rash starting on the head and spreading downward

If symptoms appear, stay home and call Health Link rather than visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent further spread.

While experts stress there is no need for panic, they urge the public to remain vigilant about vaccinations to protect against outbreaks.