Alberta reports four new measles cases; one linked to Edmonton flight

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Alberta Health Services issued a public warning after discovering four new cases of measles, including one related to Edmonton International Airport.

In a press release Friday night, the AHS said there were four new cases in central Alberta, including a person who flew to Mexico on April 2, who may have infected others. Now, there are 30 confirmed cases in the central area of ​​the health authorities, including Red Deer, Two Hills, Drumheller, Drayton Valley, Lamont and other surrounding communities.

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The news came as the province’s top doctors urged Alberta to get free vaccines, saying the outbreak was “highly preventable.”

“The measles vaccine is safe and very effective in preventing infections and complications, and it’s easy to use in eligible Alberta.”

Exposure to vaccines given within 72 hours can prevent infection.

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As of Friday, there were 58 cases of measles in the province, Jove said. He said the southern and central regions of the province are concerned in particular.

“While the number of cases is about the number of cases, I want to let Alberta know that public health officials are managing these cases and contacts and working with local leadership to support affected communities,” he said in a statement.

Jofi estimated that 48 of the confirmed cases “maybe” had previously been passed on to another person.

The latest public contact in the Central Region took place on April 2 between the boarding hall and the international departure area of ​​Edmonton International Airport, and the infected person was flying to Cancun on 4387.

Anyone who attended these locations and was born after 1970 had a dose of measles vaccine in less than two doses, the AHS said.

“They should self-monitorize their own symptoms (because) measles and strongly encourage them to review their immunization records,” the AHS said. “Measles is a very contagious disease that is easily transmitted through the air.”

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“If measles symptoms do occur, it is recommended that individuals stay in 811 and call health contact when visiting any medical facility or provider, including a family doctor clinic or pharmacy, stay on 811,” Ahs said.

Complications may include ear infections, pneumonia, brain inflammation, premature delivery and, in rare cases, death. Pregnant women, babies and people with weak immune systems are at greatest risk.

“It is recommended that six months and its early stage vaccines be received, including 11-month-old babies,” the AHS said. “However, they should still receive two conventional doses at one year old.”

The AHS added that measles is “currently spreading around” the two hills’ communities. It advises those living in the area to receive additional immunization.

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Anyone seeking other information can contact 88111 via 811 or the text “measles”. Immunization records can be checked by texting the “vaccine record” to the same number.

– Files with Jackie Carmichael

jwakefield@postmedia.com

x.com/jonnywakefield

@jonnywakefield.bsky.social

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