April 24, 2014
EDMONTON – A new case of measles has been confirmed in an Edmonton Zone infant. The infant is less than 12 months of age, and is therefore too young to be immunized against measles.
Though this case is not a risk to general public, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is highlighting this case as a reminder of the importance of immunization as a means of protecting vulnerable individuals from exposure to potentially deadly illnesses, such as measles.
“Quite simply, vulnerable individuals – such as infants too young to be immunized, or immuno-compromised Albertans who can’t be immunized – are dependent on the immunity of those around them,” says Dr. Gerry Predy, AHS Senior Medical Officer of Health. “Without proper immunization, Albertans are not only at risk of developing measles themselves; they are also putting these vulnerable individuals at great risk for diseases against which their bodies have no defense.”
Measles is an extremely contagious illness: individuals born after 1970 who have not received two documented doses of measles vaccine (at appropriate ages) are approximately 90 per cent likely to get sick with measles after exposure to the virus.
In Alberta, measles vaccine is offered, free of charge, as part of the routine Childhood Immunization Program. Children in Alberta should receive their first dose of measles vaccine at 12 months of age and their second dose between the ages of four and six years. Both doses are required to be fully protected.
No treatment for measles disease exists.
Symptoms of measles include:
Approximately one in three persons with measles develop additional more severe complications, which can include ear infections leading to permanent hearing loss, pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and seizures. Measles can also lead to death.
Serious complications are more likely to develop in children under five years of age, individuals 20 years of age and older, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
“Measles is not to be taken lightly. We are fortunate to have vaccine that can prevent this illness, and I urge all Albertans who can be immunized to ensure they are adequately immunized,” says Dr. Predy.
Albertans uncertain about their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, should contact their local public health office or Health Link Alberta (1-866-408-5465) to discuss immunization needs.
For more information on measles disease in Alberta, visit http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/9842.asp
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
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