Alberta Health Services has identified a probable case of measles in the Central Zone and is advising of potential exposures. Individuals who were at certain locations, on the dates and in the time frames noted, may have been exposed to the probable case of measles.

These locations include Real Canadian Superstore, including Horizon Family Medicine (5016 – 51 Ave.) on March 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Village Mall Medical Clinic (#22 6320 – 50 Ave.) on March 27 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on March 30 from noon to 4 p.m.; as well as Dynalife laboratory (#101, 5002 – 55 St.) on March 28 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Individuals who were in these locations in the noted time frames may be at risk for developing measles. These individuals are advised to monitor themselves for symptoms of measles. If symptoms of measles do develop, these individuals are advised to stay home and call Health Link Alberta (1-866-408-5465) before visiting any health care facility or provider.

Symptoms of measles include a fever of 38.3C or higher; and cough, runny nose and/or red eyes; and a red blotchy rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts, beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down the body and then to the arms and legs.

Measles is an extremely contagious disease, spread easily through the air. Though there is no treatment for measles, it can be prevented through immunization.

In Alberta, measles vaccine is offered, free of charge, through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program. Children in Alberta typically receive their first dose of measles vaccine at 12 months of age, and their second dose between the ages of four and six years.

– Fawcett