As of Thursday, Alberta has confirmed 14 cases of measles, including one adult. Public health leaders are hoping people will take the time to know their vaccination level. The current outbreak has already caused alarm on levels of immunization across all distinct age groups within the province. Alberta’s regional health authorities have been revising vaccine recommendations to target, first focusing on people born in 1970 or later. Free measles vaccinations are available by appointment. Albertans, especially those born after 1970, should make sure that they are up to date with two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Vaccination Recommendations and Eligibility
According to Alberta's vaccination guidelines, individuals in the 14-year-old age range should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine over their lifetime. Health care workers without documentation of two doses, no history of lab-confirmed measles, and no lab tests showing immunity are advised to have two doses.
Albertans who are not sure if they have an active vaccine record can text vaccine record to 88111 or call Health Link. Moreover, anyone 14 years and older are able to confirm their immunization status using MyHealth Records.
Alberta implemented the routine two-dose MMR vaccine from 1996 to 1997. At the same time, they made use of a second “catch-up” dose available to school-aged children. Earlier recommendations indicated that one dose would be sufficient. Now, one and only one adult — the immunocompromised — are allowed by current guidelines to receive a second shot.
"If you didn't have two doses, you should get one … If you haven't had any, you should definitely get two," said Dr. Lynora Saxinger.
Addressing Immunization Gaps
Alberta Health Services (AHS) want everyone to know that measles cases and serious complications from infection are extremely rare among vaccinated individuals. Current initiatives to change vaccine recommendations for anyone born in 1970 or later seeks to improve immunity in the population.
"A lot of, but not all provinces have been modifying the recommendations for people born in 1970 and after. Now I think the bar is lower to offer a second dose," Dr. Saxinger noted.
The experience of the ongoing outbreak, underscoring the need for proactive immunization measures. Dr. Saxinger cautioned that the risk of contracting measles is extremely high for those adults who are under-vaccinated or unvaccinated. This can progress to extreme complications such as liver inflammation and lung involvement that may necessitate hospitalization.
"We're seeing enough transmission that I think it is worth being proactive about it," Dr. Saxinger stated.
Accessing Vaccination Services
Albertans 1970 or later can get the publicly funded MMR vaccine if they have no documentation of two doses. This requirement is true for anyone who has not had lab-confirmed measles, or does not have lab testing indicating immunity. If you reside in Calgary and Edmonton, it’s a cinch to book your immunizations. Simply dial Health Link at 811 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
"It's a good idea to check because many people might assume that they're fully vaccinated but now the rules for fully vaccinated might have changed," Dr. Saxinger advised.
Alberta’s routine childhood immunization schedule advises administering the first dose of the MMR at 12 months. Next, the second dose would be given at 18 months. By achieving high levels of vaccination against measles, health officials hope to stop this contagion in its tracks and protect the health of the public.
