Alberta Health Services is warning the public about a possible measles exposure in St. Paul after confirming that a person infected with the virus visited Lenora’s No Frills, 5701 50 Ave on April 26, between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. while infectious.
Anyone who was at the store during that time, who was born in or after 1970 and has fewer than two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine, may be at risk of developing the disease. AHS is encouraging those individuals to review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms over the next three weeks.
Symptoms of measles include a fever of 38.8°C or higher, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red blotchy rash that typically appears three to seven days after the onset of fever. The rash often begins behind the ears and on the face before spreading down the body. On darker skin colours, it can appear purple or darker than the skin around it, or it might be hard to see.
Measles is extremely contagious and spreads easily through the air. Complications can be severe and include ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling, premature deliver during pregnancy and in rare cases death. Those most at risk include children under five, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
AHS recommends that individuals who believe they were exposed and are not fully protected get vaccinated within 72 hours to help prevent infection. In some cases, immunoglobulin may be offered up to six days after exposure to reduce the risk of severe illness.
AHS has also reminded Albertans that the measles vaccine is highly effective and available for free through Alberta’s public immunization program.
Those experiencing symptoms are urged to stay home and call the dedicated measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any clinic, pharmacy, or healthcare provider. The hotline is available to help people access their immunization records, book appointments, and receive medical advice.
AHS says additional locations may be announced if further public exposures are identified. As measles continues to circulate in Alberta’s North Zone, health officials are asking the public to take this situation seriously and check theor vaccination status. Albertans can also text “Measles” to 8811 to receive up-to-date health information on their mobile devices.
