CALGARY - Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued an urgent public health alert following the confirmation of a measles case in Calgary.

The infection is thought to have been acquired internationally, and the individual was present in multiple public locations during the time they were infectious.

If you or someone you know were in any of the following places during the specified times, you may have been exposed to this highly contagious virus:

Locations and Exposure Dates:

- December 11, 2024 - WestJet Flight WS-1553: Seattle, WA to Calgary, AB

- Calgary International Airport (YYC): - Gate D89 from 5:55 p.m. to 7:55 p.m. - International baggage claim from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. - International arrivals waiting area from 6:30 p.m. to 8:50 p.m.

- December 14, 2024 - Real Canadian Superstore Westwinds: 3633 Westwinds Drive NE, approximately from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

- December 15, 2024 - Alberta Children’s Hospital Emergency Department: from 12:38 a.m. to 10:47 p.m.

- December 15, 2024 - Diagnostic Imaging Department: from 10:24 a.m. to 12:24 p.m.

- December 15, 2024 - Alberta Children’s Hospital, Unit 4: Exposure from December 15 at 8:47 p.m. to December 17 at 10:08 p.m.

AHS warns that individuals born in 1970 or later who have had less than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine are at risk of contracting the virus.

Measles is notably communicable in indoor settings, further emphasizing the need for vigilance among those who may have been exposed.

Those at heightened risk include anyone born after 1970 without full vaccination, pregnant women, infants under one year of age, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

AHS strongly urges these individuals to contact Health Link at 811 for advice and potential medication to mitigate the risk of developing measles.

Know the Symptoms:

If you've been in the affected locations, it’s crucial to monitor for symptoms such as:

- Fever of 38.3°C (101°F) or higher - Cough, runny nose, or red eyes - A distinctive red blotchy rash that typically appears three to seven days after the fever starts, initially behind the ears and on the face, then spreading to the rest of the body.

In the event of developing symptoms, individuals are advised to stay at home and reach out to Health Link at 811 prior to visiting any healthcare facility.

Vaccination is Key:

Measles can be extremely serious and is preventable with vaccination.

In Alberta, the measles vaccine is free of charge through the publicly funded immunization program.

Vaccinations are routinely administered to children at 12 months and 18 months of age.

Residents unsure about their vaccination status are encouraged to text 'vaccine record' to 88111 or contact their local public health office.

AHS also provides additional health information via text; simply send 'Measles' to 88111.

For more information on childhood immunization and measles, please visit Alberta Health Services’ website.

Stay Safe!

Protect yourself and others by ensuring you're vaccinated, and remain alert for any health updates regarding this outbreak. Your vigilance could help stop the spread of measles in our community!