An apprehension wave has swept Calgary as Alberta Health Services (AHS) confirms a case of measles in the city. AHS has warned the public about potential exposure to measles in many busy locations and urges individuals who went to these areas to remain vigilant for symptoms.
Symptoms of measles can appear between seven and 18 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
AHS urged those who develop any of these symptoms to isolate at home and get in touch with Health Link at 811 before seeking medical care.
AHS revealed that certain demographics. Individuals with fewer than two measles vaccinations, pregnant women, infants under one year old, and people with weakened immune systems are prone to contracting the disease, as such, they are advised to call Health Link to find out about preventative medication. They are considered less immunized and more susceptible to the disease.
Measles can be prevented through vaccination. AHS pointed out the importance of checking one’s immunization status with Health Link and warned that while measles is highly contagious and easily spread through the air, there is no treatment for it once contracted, making prevention paramount.
