No New Measles Cases Reported in Alberta Following Single Infection in Calgary Child

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has confirmed that there have been no new reported cases of measles following a single case involving a child from Calgary who contracted the disease while traveling abroad last week.

The health agency revealed that the child had come into contact with various locations in Calgary while being infectious, prompting concerns about potential exposure to the public. AHS has reported that the child is currently recovering at home and is in isolation without any complications.

In response to the situation, public health teams are actively reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed to the infected child. AHS emphasized that they will continue to take all necessary precautions in the coming weeks to prevent further transmission of measles.

"All appropriate measures for follow-up and precautionary steps have been initiated," stated AHS in an email. The agency has also notified the parents of possibly affected individuals to ensure they are informed and can monitor for symptoms.

Regarding concerns over potential spread in the Alberta Children’s Hospital, AHS reassured that standard protocols have been implemented, which include heightened precautions for patients. The organization clarified that while the risk level is being assessed, this incident does not constitute an outbreak, as it remains an isolated case.

Last week, AHS shared specific locations and timestamps where individuals may have been exposed to the infection. These include:

Exposure Locations

**Dec. 11:** - WestJet flight WS1553 from Seattle to Calgary - Calgary International Airport (YYC) from 5:55 PM to 7:55 PM - International baggage claim from 6 PM to 8:30 PM - International arrivals waiting area from 6:30 PM to 8:50 PM **Dec. 14:** - Real Canadian Superstore Westwinds from approximately 3 PM to 7 PM **Dec. 15:** - Alberta Children's Hospital Emergency Department from 12:38 AM to 10:47 PM - Diagnostic Imaging Department from 10:24 AM to 12:24 PM **Dec. 15 to 17:** - Alberta Children's Hospital, Unit 4 from Dec. 15 at 8:47 PM to Dec. 17 at 10:08 PM

Measles is an extremely contagious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. It spreads easily through the air, and symptoms can include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive red blotchy rash. Complications can be severe, leading to ear infections, pneumonia, and even death.

AHS is urging anyone born in or after 1970 who has had fewer than two doses of the measles vaccine and who may have been in the aforementioned locations during the exposure times to check their immunization records and watch for symptoms. Those who fall into higher risk categories—such as pregnant women, infants under one year old, or individuals with weakened immune systems—are advised to contact Health Link at 811 for further guidance.

If any symptoms do arise, individuals are encouraged to stay home and inform Health Link at 811 before seeking medical attention to avoid exposing others.

For further information and health resources, individuals can text "vaccine record" to 88111 or reach out to their local public health office. Additionally, anyone curious about measles can text "Measles" to 88111 for immediate health information.