Another case of the measles has been confirmed in Alberta, this time in the provincial capital, as health officials warn Albertans of potential exposures to the highly-contagious virus.
Alberta Health Services officials said Thursday that a single case of measles has been confirmed in Edmonton. It's the first confirmed case in the city in two years. The warning came one day after health officials said two new cases of the virus were confirmed in Calgary.
Officials warn that individuals in Edmonton may have been exposed to the measles virus at two locations in the city’s west end on March 26 or 26. For more information on the potential exposure sites click here.
The Public Health Agency of Canada is warning of a higher than usual number of measles cases this year, with outbreaks reported in western Canada, the Prairies and Ontario.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air.
The virus can cause a very high fever, breathing problems, and a rash that spreads over the entire body. Most people eventually recover, but approximately one in 10 children can also develop ear infections, and up to one in 20 will get pneumonia.
In severe cases, measles may cause swelling of the brain that can lead to permanent brain damage.
With files from CTV Edmonton
