Confirmed Measles Case In Calgary: AHS Public Health Alert And Vaccination Reminders

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Post on Mar 18, 2025

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Confirmed Measles Case in Calgary: AHS Public Health Alert and Vaccination Reminders

Calgary, Alberta (October 26, 2023) – Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a public health alert following the confirmation of a measles case in Calgary. This marks the first confirmed case in the city this year and serves as a critical reminder of the importance of measles vaccination and the ongoing need for community-wide immunity. The individual diagnosed with measles is currently recovering, and AHS is working diligently to identify and monitor close contacts to prevent further spread.

Measles, a highly contagious viral illness, can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling). While largely preventable through vaccination, outbreaks can occur when vaccination rates decline, leaving vulnerable populations at risk. This recent case underscores the ongoing threat posed by this potentially dangerous disease.

Understanding the Risk and AHS Response

AHS Public Health is actively tracing individuals who may have been in close contact with the infected person during their infectious period. These individuals are being contacted directly and advised on necessary precautions. The specific locations and times of potential exposure are not being publicly disclosed to protect the privacy of the individual and to ensure the efficacy of contact tracing efforts.

However, AHS emphasizes the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. The public is urged to monitor themselves for symptoms, which can include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Koplik's spots (small white spots inside the mouth)
• A characteristic rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body

If you experience these symptoms, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not go to a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital without calling ahead to inform them of your potential exposure to measles. This will help protect other patients and healthcare workers.

The Importance of Vaccination: Protecting Yourself and Your Community

The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is highly effective and is routinely recommended for children. AHS strongly recommends that all Calgarians ensure their immunization records are up-to-date.

Who should get vaccinated?

• Children: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for children, typically given at 12 months and 18 months of age.
• Adults: Adults born after 1970 who have not received two doses of the MMR vaccine should also get vaccinated. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should contact their physician or a public health clinic.
• Pregnant women: Pregnant women who are not immune to measles should consult with their healthcare provider. Measles can pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus.

Staying Informed and Taking Action

AHS encourages Calgarians to stay informed about measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Regularly checking the AHS website for updates and following public health guidelines is vital in protecting the community. This includes practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to minimize the spread of respiratory illnesses.

This recent case highlights the continued need for high vaccination rates to protect our community’s health. Getting vaccinated is not only a personal responsibility but also a crucial step in protecting vulnerable individuals who cannot receive the vaccine. By working together, we can prevent the further spread of measles and maintain a healthy Calgary. For more information, visit the Alberta Health Services website or contact your local public health clinic.