Concern about measles in Alberta

A measles outbreak is occurring in British Columbia, which worries Alberta.

According to Dr. Jai Hu, Medical Officer of Health for the Calgary area, measles should be a cause for alarm in Alberta because of the many trips between British Columbia and Alberta.

He said: "Around the world, we are seeing more and more cases of measles. It is extremely important that people make sure to get vaccinated against measles because it is actually the most contagious disease on the market. "

Hu said that there had been no case of measles this year, but six cases of measles last year.

Hu mentioned that adults born before 1970 are usually immune to measles. In some circumstances, the person may still be eligible for the vaccine. "If you were born in 1970 or later, you are eligible to receive two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine." The vaccine is usually given at two times during childhood. The first to 12 months and the second between four and six years. Hu said that some people received only one dose because at one time only one dose was offered. He said that adults can receive their second dose.

"In most people, measles causes a characteristic rash, fever, cough congestion."