Calgary Measles Exposure Alert – AHS Warning
Measles Alert Issued for Calgary Locations: Potential Exposure on July 4th
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Calgary, AB – Public health officials in Calgary have issued a measles alert, identifying several locations where individuals may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus. The alert specifically targets those who visited Macleod Trail, Anejo Restaurant, and The Winkin’ Owl Pub and Kitchen on July 4th and early July 5th.
If you were in these areas during the specified times and were born in or after 1970, and have received fewer than two doses of the measles vaccine, you could be at risk.
Key Exposure Locations and Times:
Macleod Trail: July 4, from 3:30 p.m.to 6 p.m.
Anejo Restaurant, 2116 4 Street SW: July 4, from 6:30 p.m.to 10 p.m.
The Winkin’ Owl Pub and Kitchen, 13750 Bow Bottom Trail: From July 4 at 11:30 p.m.to July 5 at 3:30 a.m.
Understanding Your Risk and What to Do
Measles is an airborne virus that can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. This means that even if you didn’t directly interact with an infected individual, you could still be at risk if you were in the same enclosed space.The incubation period for measles can be lengthy, with symptoms typically appearing 7 to 21 days after exposure. This is why it’s crucial to self-monitor for any signs of illness.
Recognizing Measles Symptoms:
If you meet the criteria for potential exposure, be vigilant for the following symptoms:
Fever: A temperature of 38.3° C (101° F) or higher.
The “Three Cs”: Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).
Rash: A distinctive rash usually appears 3 to 7 days after the fever begins. It typically starts behind the ears and on the face, then spreads downwards to the rest of the body. On lighter skin tones, the rash appears red and blotchy. On darker skin tones,it may appear purple or darker than the surrounding skin,or it might be difficult to detect.
taking Action if Symptoms Develop
If you begin to experience any of these symptoms, it is indeed vital to take immediate action to prevent further spread:
- Stay Home: Do not go to work, school, or any public places.
- Call Ahead: Contact the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility or provider. This allows them to take necessary precautions to avoid exposing others. This includes family physician clinics, urgent care centres, and pharmacies.
Alberta’s Measles Situation
This alert comes as Alberta grapples with a meaningful increase in measles cases. Since the beginning of March,the province has reported nearly 1,300 cases. While most of these cases are located outside of Calgary and Edmonton, with over 750 in the South Zone and nearly 330 in the North Zone, the potential for wider spread remains a concern.
Public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination as the most effective way to protect yourself and your community from measles. If you are unsure about your vaccination status or have concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider.