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EDMONTON — Alberta can’t seem to shake a continuing measles outbreak, with health officials reporting new cases in the Edmonton area and a standing exposure advisory now expanded to include Parkland County.
Provincial data shows measles transmission is ongoing across Alberta, with cases reported in every health zone. As of Feb. 20, the province had recorded 73 confirmed cases in 2026, including 25 in the North Zone, 12 in the Central Zone, 27 in the South Zone and nine in the Edmonton Zone. Four cases were listed as currently communicable, and four people were in hospital, including one in intensive care.
Public health officials say Parkland County has now joined a short list of areas under a standing exposure advisory, meaning residents, workers, students and visitors are being warned of an increased risk of contact with the virus. Similar standing advisories are already in place in parts of northern Alberta and the South Zone.
Health officials say the outbreak is affecting people of all ages, though most cases continue to be reported among children and youth who are not immunized. The province warns some infections may be going undetected or unreported due to lower immunity levels in certain communities.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air and can linger in indoor spaces after an infected person has left. Symptoms include fever of 38.3 C or higher, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a blotchy rash that usually begins on the face and spreads downward across the body.
Officials advise anyone who develops symptoms to stay home and avoid visiting health care facilities without calling ahead. Albertans who think they may have been exposed or who are unsure of their immunization status are encouraged to check their records and contact the provincial measles hotline for guidance.
Health authorities say measles vaccination remains the most effective protection, with two doses recommended for children and available through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program
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