Alberta Health officials have issued a public alert for potential measles exposure at Rockyview General Hospital.
Anyone who was in the hospital’s emergency room on April 4 between 10:27 a.m. and 6:17 p.m. may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
Those born in or after 1970 who have received fewer than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine, or who have never had measles, may be at risk of developing the disease. They are being advised to monitor for symptoms and review their immunization records.
RELATED STORIES
Measles spreads easily through the air and can cause fever of 38.3 C or higher, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash typically appears three to seven days after the onset of fever, beginning on the face and spreading down the body.
Individuals who develop symptoms are advised to stay home and call the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility.
Measles vaccine
Health officials say the measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection and complications. In Alberta, it is provided free through the publicly funded immunization program, with doses recommended at one year and 18 months of age.
People who believe they were exposed and are not fully protected may be eligible for preventive treatment. Vaccine can be administered within 72 hours of exposure to reduce the risk of infection, while certain high-risk groups — including infants under one year, pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems — may be eligible for immunoglobulin within six days.
How to access records
Albertans can check immunization records or book appointments by calling the hotline. Individuals 14 and older can also access their records through My Health Record or text “Measles” to 88111 for information.