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OTTAWA — Alberta’s measles outbreak has eased to a single known active case, offering cautious optimism for public health officials, though authorities warn the risk has not disappeared because infections can go undiagnosed or unreported.
Provincial data show there was one confirmed measles case still considered communicable as of noon Dec. 12, down from nearly 2,000 cases reported since March. Health officials stressed the figure reflects only known cases and does not mean transmission has ended.
Alberta Health data indicate a total of 1,992 confirmed measles cases have been reported provincewide since March, with 1,991 now considered no longer communicable. The lone active case was reported in the Central zone. No cases were listed as active in the North, Edmonton, Calgary or South zones.
Public health officials said measles transmission has occurred across all regions of Alberta, with the highest number of cases recorded in the North, South and Central zones. Most reported infections have involved children under 5 and those aged 5 to 17 who were not immunized.
Officials cautioned that the number of active cases does not fully reflect community risk. They said some people may have measles without being diagnosed or reported, and exposure risks remain, particularly in areas with lower immunization coverage.
No measles patients were hospitalized as of Dec. 11, and there were no intensive care admissions. Cumulatively this year, measles infections in Alberta have resulted in 160 hospitalizations, 15 ICU admissions and one death linked to the disease.
Health officials continue to urge Albertans to ensure their measles immunizations are up to date, noting vaccination remains the most effective protection against infection and serious complications. Measles-containing vaccines are provided free of charge to eligible residents through public health clinics.
Measles is an extremely contagious airborne virus that spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. While case counts in Alberta have fallen sharply, officials said outbreaks continue globally, including in Canada, the United States and Europe, increasing the risk of imported cases.
Alberta Health Services has advised residents, workers, students and visitors to remain vigilant, monitor for symptoms and contact Health Link at 811 before visiting any health-care facility if exposure is suspected.
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