Measles Alert Issued for Parkland County

Alberta Health Services has issued an indefinite measles exposure advisory for Parkland County, situated approximately 50 kilometers west of Edmonton. This advisory targets individuals living, working, or traveling within the county, highlighting the current risk of contracting the measles virus. The province specifically advises that those born in or after 1970 who have received fewer than two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or who have never contracted measles, may be susceptible.

Recent measles exposure sites identified include the Tri Wellness MD Centre and its pharmacy in Spruce Grove on February 2nd, between 10:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. Additionally, potential exposures occurred on February 8th at the Edmonton Sport Centre and Axe Monkeys in Edmonton. Measles exposure advisories continue to be in effect for other areas, including Alberta's south zone and specific locations in the north zone.

Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air, and symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash appearing three to seven days after the fever begins. Complications can be severe, ranging from ear infections and pneumonia to brain inflammation. As of the latest reports, Alberta has recorded 2,074 confirmed measles cases since the current outbreak began. Three individuals are currently hospitalized with the illness, one of whom is in intensive care.