Alberta Health Services is warning the public about a potential measles exposure at the St. Therese–St. Paul Healthcare Centre after a confirmed case visited the hospital earlier this week.

 

When and Where Exposure Occurred

 

According to AHS, the individual attended the emergency department at the St. Paul hospital on Tuesday, Dec. 17, and Wednesday, Dec. 18. The exposure window spans roughly 26 hours, beginning early on Dec. 17 and ending in the early morning hours of Dec. 18.

 

AHS notes additional locations may be identified and released if required.

 

Who May Be at Risk

 

Anyone who was at the hospital during that time and was born in or after 1970 may be at risk if they have:

 

Fewer than two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine

 

Never had measles

 

 

Those individuals may be advised to take extra precautions if they need to attend a healthcare facility.

 

AHS is urging anyone who may have been exposed to review their immunization records and closely monitor for symptoms.

 

Symptoms to Watch For

 

Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air. Symptoms can include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red or irritated eyes
• A rash that typically appears three to seven days after fever begins
• On lighter skin tones, the rash often appears red and blotchy. On darker skin tones, it may appear darker than the surrounding skin or be difficult to see.

 

Higher-Risk Groups

 

AHS says complications from measles can be serious and may include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery, and in rare cases, death.

 

Those at greatest risk of severe complications include:

 

• Pregnant individuals
• Children under five
• People with weakened immune systems

 

 

What to Do If Symptoms Develop

 

Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with measles is advised to stay home and contact the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility, including clinics or pharmacies.

 

Vaccination Information

 

AHS says measles vaccination remains highly effective at preventing infection and complications. In Alberta, the vaccine is provided free of charge through the provincial immunization program.

 

The recommended schedule includes:

• First dose at one year of age
• Second dose at 18 months

 

People who believe they were exposed and are not fully protected may still be eligible for immunization within 72 hours of exposure to reduce the risk of infection.

 

Babies under one year old, pregnant individuals, and those with severely weakened immune systems may qualify for immunoglobulin treatment if given within six days of exposure.

 

For guidance, AHS encourages affected individuals to contact the measles hotline for further direction.