Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a public health alert following the confirmation of a measles case at the Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton. The alert was released on Monday, December 22, 2025, urging individuals potentially exposed to monitor for symptoms.
Exposure Details and At-Risk Groups
The exposure occurred at the hospital on December 19, 2025, between 6:00 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. Health officials have identified a specific group as potentially at risk.
Individuals born in or after 1970 who were at the location and have received fewer than two documented doses of the measles vaccine, or who have never had the disease, are considered susceptible. AHS advises these people to immediately review their immunization records and begin self-monitoring for symptoms.
Symptoms and Urgent Recommendations
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. Authorities emphasize that the virus spreads easily through the air. Key symptoms to watch for include:
- A high fever of 38.3°C or greater
- Cough, runny nose, and/or red eyes
- A distinctive rash that typically appears three to seven days after the fever starts
The rash usually begins behind the ears and on the face before spreading downward to the body, arms, and legs. AHS strongly advises anyone developing symptoms to stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent further spread.
Prevention and Post-Exposure Measures
The measles vaccine is publicly available and is highly effective at preventing infection and serious complications. For those potentially exposed and unvaccinated, time is critical.
A dose of the measles vaccine can prevent infection if administered within 72 hours of exposure. For individuals who cannot receive the vaccine—such as infants under one year old, pregnant people, or those with severely weakened immune systems—an alternative treatment called immunoglobulin may be an option if given within six days of exposure.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vaccination. AHS continues to monitor the situation and provides updates through its official channels.
