In a concerning development, four additional measles cases have been confirmed in the Central Zone, pushing the total number to an alarming 30. This surge in cases has health officials on high alert.

Overall, Alberta has reported a total of 58 cases, which includes a worrying 11 cases in the South Zone and 10 in the North Zone. Meanwhile, the major cities are not untouched, with four reported cases in Edmonton and three in Calgary.

Dr. Mark Joffe, Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health, is keeping a close watch on the outbreak. "While the rising numbers are worrisome, our public health officials are actively managing the situation and collaborating with local leadership to assist affected communities," he stated.

As of April 11, it's estimated that 48 confirmed cases may no longer be contagious, but this doesn't eliminate risk; many cases could still be present, especially those coming from areas where measles is circulating.

Confirmed measles cases in the Central Zone have been primarily located in Two Hills, Vegreville, and Holden. However, Alberta Health Services has issued warnings about individuals with measles who were present in public places, including the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre from April 3 to 5.

Potential exposure times at the Red Deer hospital include: • Emergency Department on April 3 from 12 a.m. to 1:40 p.m. (monitor symptoms until April 24) • Surge Unit between April 3, 11:35 a.m. and April 5, 1:30 p.m. (monitor symptoms until April 26) • Diagnostic Imaging on April 4 from 2:55 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. (monitor symptoms until April 25)