Recent case at Alberta’s St. Joseph’s General Hospital reveals growing need for awareness and immunization coverage.
What Happened: Measles Exposure at Vegreville Hospital
A confirmed measles exposure occurred at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville, Alberta, raising concerns for patients and staff. According to Alberta Health Services (AHS), the exposure took place during two key periods:
- April 29 (7:00 PM to 4:45 AM, April 30)
- April 30 (4:40 PM to 8:30 PM)
Anyone who was in the emergency department during these windows, especially those born after 1970 and without two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, may be at risk.
CTV News coverage reported that AHS is contacting individuals directly and encouraging the community to watch for symptoms and verify their vaccination status.
Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Severity
Measles exposure can lead to serious illness, particularly among young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. Common measles symptoms include:
- High fever (38.3°C or higher)
- Runny nose and persistent cough
- Red, watery eyes
- A spreading rash beginning on the face
Severe complications include pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and in rare cases, death. Learn more from Canada.ca – Measles
Community Response: What You Should Do Now
Following this measles exposure, Alberta Health Services advises the public to:
- Check immunization records: Ensure that you and your family members are fully vaccinated.
- Monitor symptoms: Be alert to any signs of measles for 21 days after potential exposure.
- Seek medical guidance: If symptoms develop, call 1-844-944-3434 before visiting a healthcare provider.
Free measles vaccines are available through public health clinics across Alberta. Find a clinic near you. Read more
Staying aware of public alerts and ensuring up-to-date vaccinations is essential. This incident underscores how fragile herd immunity can become when coverage drops. Learn how vaccination protects communities.
