Canada Global(Web News) Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mark Joffe has spoken about the measles situation in Alberta and how Albertans can protect themselves, saying that a measles outbreak is spreading across Canada, including Alberta. As of April 11, we have seen 58 confirmed cases in the province, and we are closely monitoring the increasing cases within the southern and central zones.
While the number of cases is concerning, I want to let Albertan know that public health officials are managing cases and contacts and working with affected community leadership.
“As of April 11, an estimated 48 confirmed cases of measles have passed their communicable period (when the person can transmit measles to another person). However, it is important to note that this does not necessarily reflect the risk in the community as there may be individuals who have not been diagnosed with measles, including those who are circulating it in the province, not reflecting the number of people who have not been diagnosed with measles.
“Measles is more serious than other common childhood illnesses. It can cause pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. Early symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a blotchy red rash that appears three to seven days after the fever starts.”
“In light of the measles outbreak across the province, I want to remind all Albertans that this outbreak is highly preventable. Albertans can keep themselves and those around them safe by ensuring that their measles immunizations are up-to-date. Contracting measles can have serious consequences.
“The measles vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing infection and complications and is readily available to eligible Albertans. To see if you are eligible to receive the vaccine, you can call the Immunization Booking Line at 811 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. for the Calgary or Edmonton zones.
“Alberta Health is providing regular updates on measles cases at alberta.ca/measles, including expanded data for age groups, estimated data for those outside their contact period and information on the immunization status of cases and the number of immunization doses received.”
“It is important that Albertans do their part to stop the spread of measles. For more information, please visit alberta.ca/measles.
