Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Mark Joffe, issued a public statement on Friday addressing the growing number of measles cases in the province and outlined crucial steps Albertans can take to protect themselves and their communities.
As of April 11, a total of 58 confirmed measles cases have been reported across Alberta, with central and southern zones being closely monitored due to a noticeable uptick. While officials estimate that 48 of these cases are no longer contagious, Dr. Joffe cautioned that this does not mean the overall risk has passed.
“There may be undiagnosed cases in the community, as well as people arriving from areas where measles is actively circulating,” he said, urging residents to stay vigilant.
Dr. Joffe emphasized that measles is a serious illness, capable of causing pneumonia, brain inflammation, and in some cases, death. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a blotchy rash that appears several days after fever onset. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is urged to stay home and call Health Link at 811 for further guidance.
The top health official highlighted that measles is highly preventable through vaccination, calling the measles-containing vaccine the most effective public health measure available. He made a special appeal to parents of young children, who are particularly vulnerable to complications from the virus.
“The measles vaccine is both safe and effective. I urge all Albertans to check their immunization status and get vaccinated if needed,” Dr. Joffe said.
Albertans in Calgary or Edmonton zones can call 811 to book an appointment, while residents in other areas should contact their local public health centre.
Alberta Health is also providing frequent updates on the measles situation through its dedicated webpage, alberta.ca/measles, which includes detailed statistics, immunization status of cases, and vaccination rates.
