COLD LAKE - People who were at the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre Emergency Department for periods of time on May 28, 29 and 30 may have been exposed to measles.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) released an advisory on June 4, stating, "Alberta Health Services (AHS) has been notified of people with confirmed measles in the North Zone who have been in a public setting while infectious. Additional locations may be released if necessary."
- May 28-29, 2025: 7:30 p.m. – 3:30 a.m. (overnight)
- May 29-30, 2025: 5 p.m. – 3:20 a.m. (overnight)
"Anyone who attended this location at these times, who was born in or after 1970 and has fewer than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine, may be at risk for developing measles. They should monitor for symptoms of measles and are strongly encouraged to review their immunization records," according to AHS.
There are 77 confirmed cases of measles in the North Zone, as of 12 p.m., June 4, according to the Government of Alberta, which includes eight new cases.
There are 749 total confirmed cases of measles in Alberta, as of June 4, with 25 new cases reported recently.
Over 560 of the cases in Alberta are in people 17 years old and younger.
Measles can spread easily through the air. Symptoms of measles include a fever of 38.3° C or higher, a cough, runny nose and/or red eyes; and rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts, "usually beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down to the body and then to the arms and legs."
According to ASH, "The rash appears red and blotchy on lighter skin colours. On darker skin colours, it can appear purple or darker than the skin around it, or it might be hard to see."
The advisory further states, "Complications of measles can include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery, and rarely death. Persons who are pregnant, less than five years of age, or have weakened immune systems are at greatest risk."
If people notice symptoms develop, they should stay home and call the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 "before visiting any healthcare facility or provider, including a family physician clinic or pharmacy."
Vaccines are highly effective at prevention infection and complications from measles, according to AHS. The measles vaccine is free of charge in Alberta.
"The recommended schedule for measles vaccination is two doses, the first at one year of age and the second at 18 months."
Because measles is circulating in the North Zone, some people are eligible for additional immunizations.
"Infants who are 6 months up to and including 11 months of age are recommended to receive an early dose of vaccine. However, they should still receive their routine two doses after they reach one year of age," according to information from AHS.
Also, "If you were born before 1970 and have not been immunized, talk to your healthcare provider about possibly receiving a single dose of measles vaccine."
Albertans uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, can check eligibility and/or book an appointment by calling the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434, says AHS.
"The measles hotline connects you to a professional who can assist with accessing your immunization records or offer general information; provide advice for those experiencing measles symptoms and are feeling unwell; and assist with booking measles immunization appointments or locating a public health clinic offering immunization in your area."
.jpg;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)
