Public Health Alert Issued Following Measles Case in Red Deer

Red Deer, Alberta – A public health alert has been issued by Alberta Health Services (AHS) following the notification of a confirmed case of measles in the Central Zone. This announcement, made on July 19, 2025, indicates that the individual was in a public setting while infectious, raising concerns about potential exposures among the community. AHS has identified a specific location where the exposure may have occurred: Tim Hortons/Wendy’s at 100-139 Leva Avenue, Gasoline Alley, Red Deer, during the time frame of July 11, approximately 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (MST).

Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, can spread rapidly through airborne transmission. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinct rash that appears three to seven days after the onset of fever. The rash generally begins behind the ears and on the face, extending downwards to the body and limbs. Complications from measles can be severe, particularly for vulnerable populations, including infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, potentially leading to pneumonia, ear infections, or even encephalitis.

Individuals who were present at the identified location during the specified times and who were born in or after 1970, yet have received fewer than two documented doses of the measles-containing vaccine, are urged to monitor for symptoms and review their immunization records. AHS emphasizes that the measles vaccine is highly effective and is provided free of charge through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program. The recommended vaccination schedule includes two doses: the first at one year of age and a second at 18 months.

In light of the current situation, AHS has also expanded eligibility for additional immunizations. Infants aged 6 to 11 months are advised to receive an early dose of the vaccine, although they should still complete the routine two-dose schedule after reaching one year. Adults born before 1970 who have not been immunized should consult their healthcare providers regarding the possibility of receiving a single dose of measles vaccine.

If individuals suspect they have been exposed to measles and lack proper immunization, they may still receive a dose of vaccine within 72 hours post-exposure to mitigate the risk of infection. For those under one year, pregnant women, and individuals with severely weakened immune systems, immunoglobulin treatment may be available within six days of exposure to prevent disease onset.

AHS encourages the public to contact the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 for further information on symptoms, vaccination, and immunization records. Additionally, Albertans aged 14 and older can access their immunization history via MyHealth Records. Those uncertain about their or their child’s vaccination status are also encouraged to reach out to AHS for assistance.

This incident underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles. Alberta Health Services remains committed to providing comprehensive healthcare services to over four million residents in Alberta, focusing on not only vaccination but also reducing emergency department wait times and improving patient care accessibility. For more information on measles and vaccination, residents can visit ahs.ca/measles and myhealth.alberta.ca.