Measles outbreak declared in Central Alberta

Central Alberta is one of three areas in the province where Alberta Health Services (AHS) has declared a measles outbreak.
"Following several consecutive weeks in which new cases of measles disease have been confirmed in the Calgary, Central and Edmonton Zones of Alberta Health Services, AHS has declared a measles outbreak in these three Zones," an AHS media release issued on April 29 states.
The release also outlines immediate changes to "routine childhood immunization schedule recommendations" for these three areas.
"Infants six months of age to less than 12 months of age who are living in or travelling to the Calgary, Central or Edmonton Zones of AHS, or travelling to any out-of-province destinations in which measles outbreaks are ongoing, are eligible for an early additional dose of measles vaccine," the release states. "Infants who receive this additional early dose of vaccine will still be required to receive the two routinely recommended doses of measles vaccine, administered at 12 months of age and between four and six years of age."
Children aged four years and older attending daycare, day homes and schools in the outbreak areas who have not yet received their second dose of measles vaccine are advised to receive the vaccine as soon as possible, AHS states in the release.
Children who have already received both doses of measles vaccine do not require any additional doses.
Alberta Health Services is also advising all Albertans to make sure they are up to date on all immunizations including the measles vaccine.
Anyone born in or after 1970 needs two documented doses of the vaccine for protection.
The measles vaccine is offered free of charge in Alberta at public health offices and community health centres.
The Olds Community Health Centre can be reached at 403-559-2150.
For more information on measles, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca/measles or call Health Link Alberta at 1-866-408-5465.

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