Protect yourself against measles, supports available

HIGH LEVEL — Alberta Health Services (AHS) is reminding all residents in High Level, Fort Vermilion, La Crete and surrounding areas to take steps to protect themselves and their families against measles. 

A standing measles exposure advisory for three locations in the AHS North Zone is in effect until further notice. The locations are The Hamlet of La Crete, St. Theresa General Hospital in Fort Vermilion and Northwest Health Centre in High Level. Site-specific exposure advisories will no longer be issued for these locations. 

As cases continue to be confirmed across Alberta, it’s important to be aware of the 24/7 supports available, including the dedicated measles hotline and online resources.

24/7 Measles Hotline: 1-844-944-3434

Call this hotline if you:

• Are experiencing symptoms of measles.
• Require guidance on exposure risks and what to do next.
• Need to verify immunization records for yourself or your children.
• Want to book an immunization appointment.

Call the measles hotline immediately if you believe you or child have been exposed to measles or have symptoms. Do not wait for symptoms to get worse. Also call before visiting any healthcare provider, clinic or hospital. A registered nurse will advise you on getting the care you need while helping prevent the spread of measles. 

Online Resources

AHS provides up-to-date information online. Visit the following to learn more:

• AHS.ca/measles
• Alberta.ca/measles

Important Measles Information

Measles is an extremely contagious disease and the virus spreads easily through the air. Symptoms of measles include:

• Fever of 38.3° C or higher; and
• Cough, runny nose and/or red eyes; and
• A rash that appears 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. The rash appears red and blotchy on lighter skin colours. On darker skin colours, it can appear purple or darker than the skin around it, or it might be hard to see.

Complications of measles can include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery, and death (on rare occasions). Persons who are pregnant, younger than five years of age, or have weakened immune systems are at greatest risk of serious complications. 

If you suspect measles exposure or symptoms, stay home and avoid public places. Call the hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility.

Ensure your family is protected with two doses of measles-containing vaccine. In Alberta, measles vaccine is offered, free of charge, through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program. 

Alberta Health Services provides a range of health care services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide excellent, patient-focused healthcare that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.