Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a public health alert following the confirmation of a measles case involving an individual who was present at Edmonton's Royal Alexandra Hospital. The health authority is urging anyone who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms and take immediate action.
Details of the Potential Exposure
The confirmed case involves a person who was in the foyer and cafeteria of the Royal Alexandra Hospital on January 9, 2025. The individual was present during a specific timeframe: from 7:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. that morning. AHS's Department of Primary and Preventative Health Services released this information on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
Anyone who was in those areas of the hospital during that nearly three-hour window could have been exposed to the highly contagious virus. Health officials are particularly concerned about individuals who may not be fully immunized against the disease.
Who is at Risk and Recommended Actions
Measles is an airborne virus known for its extreme contagiousness. AHS specifies that people born in or after 1970 who have received fewer than two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine and have never had the illness are at potential risk of developing measles if exposed.
The health authority provides clear guidance for those who may have been exposed:
- For unvaccinated individuals, it is recommended that a dose of the measles vaccine be administered within 72 hours of exposure to help prevent the disease.
- Special considerations apply to more vulnerable groups. Babies under one year old, pregnant individuals, and people with severely weakened immune systems may be eligible to receive immunoglobulin, which must be given within six days of exposure to prevent illness.
Symptoms and Next Steps for Albertans
Recognizing the symptoms of measles is crucial for early intervention. The illness typically presents with:
- A high fever of 38.3°C (101°F) or higher.
- Cough, runny nose, and/or red eyes.
- A distinctive red rash that usually appears three to seven days after the fever begins. This rash often starts behind the ears and on the face before spreading downward to the body, arms, and legs.
Albertans who are uncertain about their own or their child's immunization history are urged to take proactive steps. AHS has established a dedicated measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434. By calling this number, individuals can check their eligibility for vaccination and book an appointment if necessary.
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of serious infectious diseases within the community. Public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
