Alberta appoints interim chief medical officer of health as province grapples with measles outbreaks

The recent appointment of Dr. Sunil Sookram as interim chief medical officer of health by the Alberta government comes at a crucial time, with the province facing growing measles outbreaks and the departure of the previous top doctor, Dr. Mark Joffe. Joffe’s contract ended earlier this week, and Premier Danielle Smith confirmed that he left voluntarily after serving as the province’s top doctor since 2022.

Dr. Sookram, currently serving as the facility medical director and chief of medical staff at Strathcona Community Hospital in Sherwood Park, has been chosen to ensure continuity in leadership while arrangements are made for a longer-term replacement. As a clinical professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Alberta and an emergency physician at the University of Alberta Hospital, Dr. Sookram brings a wealth of experience to the role. In a statement, he expressed his commitment to promoting and protecting the health of all Albertans in his new position.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange commended Dr. Sookram for his dedication to serving Albertans throughout his career in emergency medicine. She acknowledged his temporary appointment as crucial in finalizing the selection for the interim chief medical officer of health position. LaGrange also thanked Dr. Joffe for his service and dedication over the past three years.

The urgency of the situation is highlighted by the continuing increase in measles cases in Alberta. On Thursday alone, six new cases were reported, with the total number of confirmed cases reaching 89. While 83 individuals are now past the period of communicability, it is essential for Albertans to remain vigilant.

Measles symptoms can include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash appearing days after the fever starts. Albertans are advised to contact Health Link at 811 if they experience these symptoms or suspect exposure to measles before seeking medical help.

For more information on measles and how to protect yourself and others, visit the province’s website. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard your health and the health of those around you. Let’s work together to combat the spread of measles and ensure the well-being of our community.