Urgent Alert: Alberta Sees Rise in Measles Cases as Back-to-School Season Approaches

As summer winds down and the familiar buzz of back-to-school season approaches, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is issuing a critical alert that demands every parent's attention: measles cases are on the rise, both globally and right here in our province. This isn't just another public health advisory; it's a vital call to action to safeguard our children and communities against a highly contagious and potentially devastating disease.

For decades, measles was largely a memory for many Canadians, thanks to robust vaccination programs.

However, a concerning trend of declining childhood immunization rates has left pockets of our population vulnerable. Now, with international travel resuming and the highly infectious nature of the virus, measles is making an unwelcome comeback. AHS is urging parents to proactively check and update their children's immunization records, particularly for the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, well before the first school bell rings.

Measles isn't just a rash; it's a serious illness that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), deafness, and even death.

It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and can linger in the air for up to two hours, making it incredibly easy to transmit. One infected person can potentially infect 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people they come into contact with – a stark reminder of its rapid spread.

The good news is that measles is entirely preventable.

The MMR vaccine is incredibly safe and effective, offering powerful protection against the disease. For full and lasting immunity, two doses are recommended, typically given to children at 12 months and again between four and six years of age. This two-dose regimen not only protects the vaccinated child but also contributes to "herd immunity," a crucial protective shield for infants too young to be vaccinated, individuals with compromised immune systems, or those who cannot receive vaccines for medical reasons.

Unfortunately, the province has seen a concerning dip in routine childhood vaccination coverage.

This decline creates a fertile ground for outbreaks, especially in densely populated environments like schools, daycares, and playgrounds. As children gather for learning and play, any unvaccinated individual can become a potential link in a chain of transmission, putting entire classrooms and even schools at risk.

Ensuring your child is fully immunized isn't just a personal choice; it's a community responsibility.

Many schools may request updated immunization records upon entry, highlighting the institutional recognition of vaccination's importance. Taking the time now to verify your child’s status can prevent future disruptions to their education and protect their health, as well as the health of their friends and teachers.

AHS has made it easy to access the information you need.

Parents can check their child’s immunization records through the MyHealth Records portal, contact their family doctor, or call Health Link at 811 for guidance. Local public health clinics also offer immunization services and can provide professional advice tailored to your child's needs. Don't wait until an outbreak occurs; act now to ensure your family and community are protected.

Let's make this back-to-school season a safe and healthy one for all.

By staying informed and ensuring our children are up-to-date on their vaccinations, we can collectively build a stronger defense against measles and keep our communities thriving.