Alberta Health Services (AHS) has confirmed another case of measles in the Edmonton Zone and is alerting the public to a potential exposure at a movie theatre in south Edmonton.
According to AHS, the individual with the confirmed case was contagious while visiting Cineplex Odeon South Edmonton Cinemas on the night of April 26 between 8:30 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. Anyone who was at the theatre during that time could have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
AHS is urging individuals who were present and born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented doses of measles vaccine to review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms. These include:
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A fever of 38.3 C or higher
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Cough, runny nose, and/or red eyes
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A distinctive rash that appears 3 to 7 days after the fever starts, beginning on the face and spreading down the body
The rash may look red and blotchy on lighter skin and appear darker or be harder to detect on darker skin tones.
Measles is airborne and spreads easily, making even brief exposure in enclosed spaces a risk. While most people recover, complications can be severe, especially for infants, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems. These complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, brain inflammation, premature delivery, and in rare cases, death.
Anyone developing symptoms should stay home and call Health Link at 811 before visiting any medical facility to prevent further spread.
AHS is reminding the public that measles vaccination is free and highly effective. Alberta’s immunization schedule recommends:
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The first dose at one year of age
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A second dose at 18 months
For those recently exposed, receiving the vaccine within 72 hours may prevent infection. High-risk individuals who cannot safely be vaccinated may benefit from immune globulin treatment if given within six days of exposure.
Albertans unsure of their immunization history can:
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Text ‘vaccine record’ to 88111
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Call Health Link (811)
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Use the My Health Record online system (for those age 14 and older)
To book a vaccination, Edmonton and Calgary residents can call 811 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Residents in other zones should contact their local public health centre.
More information is available at ahs.ca/measles, including updates, prevention tips, and frequently asked questions.
