Measles case confirmed in Banff leads Alberta Health Services to issue public notice
In the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the town of Banff, Alberta, is currently navigating a measles outbreak, prompting urgent recommendations from Alberta Health Services (AHS).
To combat this, current measles vaccination guidelines recommend that residents and visitors ensure they are fully immunized with two doses of the measles-containing vaccine. For children, the typical schedule consists of the first dose at 12 months (1 year) of age and the second at 18 months. Adult visitors and residents should confirm they have received two doses or have immunity.
Fortunately, vaccination is free and available through Alberta Health Services. For those uncertain of their vaccination status, they can verify their records or book immunization appointments by calling the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 or checking their MyHealth Record if aged 14 or older.
In the event of exposure to measles, post-exposure vaccination within 72 hours can prevent infection. However, special considerations apply for infants under 1 year of age, pregnant individuals, or those with severely weakened immune systems, who may be eligible for immunoglobulin treatment within 6 days of exposure to prevent disease.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that starts behind the ears and spreads to the body and then to the arms and legs. If symptoms of measles develop, individuals are advised to stay home and call the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any health care facility or provider.
The measles outbreak in Alberta has reached a 50-year high, with a total of 1410 cases across the province. The northern zone, which includes Hinton, Cold Lake, Fort McMurray, Slave Lake, and Grand Prairie, has 552 cases, while the south health zone, which includes Lethbridge, Taber, and Medicine Hat, has 958 cases.
It's important to note that complications of measles can include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery, and, rarely, death. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that polio, a disease once thought to be nearly eradicated, is making a comeback in some parts of the world.
In related news, addressing fear and hesitancy in the Mennonite community amid Alberta's measles outbreak has become a significant concern. The community, known for its high rates of vaccine refusal, has been particularly affected by the outbreak.
Stay informed via ahs.ca/measles for updates on exposures in Banff and elsewhere in Alberta.
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