On Friday, Alberta health officials announced 17 new cases of measles. This pushes the total number of infections in the province to 210 since the first week of March. It regional increases across the country in 2020, a dramatic and disturbing reminder that this highly contagious disease continues to be a public health challenge. Over 170 of the logged incidents are in children. Almost 60 of those cases have been pinpointed in children younger than five.
Measles symptoms set in with a high fever that may last for several days, then progress to a deep cough, runny nose and red eyes. A characteristic splotchy, red rash typically comes on three to seven days after fever starts. The recent outbreak has led to the hospitalization of 11 Albertans, reminding us all how severe this illness can be.
As of Thursday, there are only 26 active cases in the entire province that are still able to be passed on to others. Public health leaders warn that the moment is critical. It’s alarming that 50% of all cases are located in Alberta’s south zone, requiring urgent action. Of the 17 new cases announced, 13 can be traced to this region, setting off alarm bells for public health officials in the area.
“The rise in measles cases is a significant public health concern,” stated a spokesperson from Alberta Health Services. “We urge parents to ensure their children are vaccinated and to be vigilant for symptoms of the disease.”
Measles is still pretty much the most contagious disease in existence. It is highly infectious, mainly spreading through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This continues to underscore the need for a fully aware and vaccinated public to stop these outbreaks from happening in the first place.
