A sign for Alberta Health Services stands outside Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Photo by Jeff McIntosh, The Canadian Press.
Since early March, Alberta has been battling a growing measles outbreak, with more than 600 confirmed cases so far. Just recently, 19 new cases were added to the total, highlighting the ongoing spread of this highly contagious disease.
Most of the recent infections are happening in southern Alberta, a region that has seen the majority of the province’s measles activity. Out of the 19 new cases, only two were reported outside this area, showing the outbreak’s concentration there. Currently, 22 individuals remain contagious, posing a risk to those around them.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) believes the actual number of cases might be higher than reported. Underreporting is common during outbreaks like this, which makes it difficult to get a full picture of the situation. To address this, the government has issued an exposure advisory. This alert warns everyone living, working, going to school, or travelling in Alberta about the significant risk of catching measles right now.
People are urged to double-check their vaccination records and get any missing doses as soon as possible. Measles spreads quickly, especially in places where people gather closely, like schools or workplaces. Vaccines are the safest and most effective way to protect yourself and those around you.
Children have been hit hardest in this outbreak. Of the total cases, 188 are children under five years old. Young kids are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing, and measles can cause serious complications in this age group. So far, 44 people have been hospitalized due to the illness, reflecting how severe measles can become, even today.
Symptoms usually begin with a high fever that lasts for several days. Other early signs include a cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. After about three to seven days, a red, blotchy rash starts to spread across the body. These symptoms make measles easy to identify, but the virus is most dangerous before the rash appears, when people can unknowingly spread it.
Health officials are working hard to contain the outbreak and keep the public informed. They emphasize that anyone who suspects they may have measles should avoid contact with others and seek medical advice immediately. This helps prevent the virus from reaching more people.
The outbreak has reminded many in Alberta about how quickly vaccine-preventable diseases can come back if people stop getting their shots. Measles was once rare in Canada because of widespread immunization, but gaps in coverage have allowed the virus to make a strong comeback.
Parents are encouraged to make sure their children are fully vaccinated, and adults should check if they need booster shots. Measles is not just a childhood illness; anyone without immunity can get sick and spread the disease.
Alberta’s health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. They’re working with healthcare providers, schools, and communities to provide information and vaccinations where they are needed most. The goal is to stop the spread as quickly as possible and protect everyone, especially the youngest and most vulnerable.
For now, the key message is clear: check your vaccination status, watch for symptoms, and stay cautious. Measles can be serious, but it’s preventable with the right protection.
