Measles Exposure Alert Issued for Cold Lake Healthcare Centre

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has confirmed cases of measles in the North Zone, with potential exposure identified at the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre Emergency Department. AHS is advising anyone who may have visited the facility during the listed time periods to review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms.

Exposure Details

According to AHS, individuals may have been exposed to measles if they visited the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre Emergency Department (314 25 Street, Cold Lake, AB, T9M 0E3) during the following dates and times:

• May 28-29, 2025: Between 7:30 p.m. and 3:30 a.m.

• May 29-30, 2025: Between 5 p.m. and 3:20 a.m.

The health authority emphasizes that those born in or after 1970 who have not received at least two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine may be at particular risk.

Understanding the Risks

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can be especially dangerous for young children, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.

Common symptoms include:

• A fever of 38.3°C or higher

• Cough, runny nose, and/or red eyes

• A rash that typically appears 3 to 7 days after the fever begins. The rash usually starts behind the ears and on the face, spreading to the body, arms, and legs. On lighter skin, the rash may look red and blotchy; on darker skin, it may appear darker or purplish and can sometimes be difficult to see.

In severe cases, complications such as ear infections, pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), premature delivery, and even death can occur.

What to Do If You Experience Symptoms

Anyone who develops symptoms is urged to stay home and contact the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility, including family physicians or pharmacies. This helps reduce the risk of further transmission in healthcare settings.

In addition, Albertans can text ‘Measles’ to 88111 to receive health information directly to their mobile device.