March 14, 2025
March 14, 2025
Measles cases are increasing globally, with numerous countries and travel destinations reporting outbreaks. Cases have been identified in several Canadian provinces, including an outbreak recently identified in northern Alberta, with possible exposure links to elsewhere in the province.
Please be aware of key precautions to prevent measles transmission and protect yourself and your colleagues.
Confirm your immunity: Measles is extremely contagious. It is strongly recommended that all staff ensure they are immune to measles. Guidance regarding how you can check your immunity status is provided in the FAQ under ‘How do I check my immunization status?’
You are considered immune or protected against measles if you have:
These include a fever 38.3° C or higher; a cough, runny nose or red eyes; and a red blotchy rash appearing three to seven days after fever starts, usually beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down to the body and then to the arms and legs.
If you are experiencing symptoms of measles, do not come to work. You should stay home, avoid contact with others, and call Health Link at 811 before visiting any health care facility or provider. Contact WHS if you believe you have measles symptoms. The Occupational Health Nurse will advise if you need to be off work.
Leaders provide lists of exposed workers to WHS for review and follow up. If you think that you may have had a workplace exposure to measles and were not contacted, reach out to WHS directly. See Insite for more information.
If you believe you have been exposed to measles outside of work, contact WHS. The Occupational Health Nurse will advise if you need to be off work.
Measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection and complications. Healthcare workers who have received fewer than two doses of measles-containing vaccine are susceptible to infection.
A Health Bulletin was issued today, to advise Albertans to watch for symptoms, isolate and call Health Link at 811 if symptoms develop before visiting any healthcare provider, and, to check immunization statuses.
Measles Exposures in Alberta offers measles information, updates and a detailed FAQ for AHS Staff & Providers.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication to keeping our people and patients safe.
Sincerely,
Dr. Laura McDougall
Senior Medical Officer of Health
