With 710 measles cases now confirmed in Alberta, this marks the worst year since 1986
Alberta Records Highest Measles Cases Since 1986
As of Monday, Alberta has confirmed a total of 710 measles cases this year, surpassing the previous record of 690 cases set in 1987. This marks the highest number of cases in a calendar year since 1986, when 843 cases were reported.
The outbreak began in March and has continued to spread throughout the spring, primarily outside of the Calgary and Edmonton health zones.
Case Distribution
The South Zone has been the most heavily impacted, accounting for 520 of the cases. The Central Zone has seen 102 cases, while the North Zone has reported 69 cases. No new cases were reported in the Calgary or Edmonton Zones over the weekend, with a total of 19 cases between them.
The majority of cases have been among children and teenagers, with 29% of cases in children under five and 46% in those aged five to 17.
Hospitalizations and Immunization Status
Currently, four individuals are hospitalized with measles, one of whom is in intensive care. Approximately 10% of cases with known outcomes have resulted in hospitalization, with 1.5% requiring intensive care. Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths from measles in 2025.
Of cases where immunization status is known, 91% were in individuals who had never received a measles vaccine, while 5% had received one of the recommended lifetime doses.
Health Warnings and Recommendations
Health officials in the South Zone believe that the number of confirmed cases is likely just the beginning, as not all infected individuals seek medical treatment.
Alberta Health Services has issued localized exposure warnings for communities where measles cases have been identified. Additionally, a standing measles exposure advisory has been issued for the entire South Zone.
The advisory urges all individuals in the South Zone born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented doses of measles vaccine to monitor for symptoms and review their immunization records.
It is crucial for anyone living, working, attending school, or traveling in the South Zone to ensure their immunizations are up to date to prevent further spread of the disease.
