Exposure of measles in Calgary Superstore prompts alert from Alberta Health Services

A case of measles has been confirmed in Calgary.

The disease was found in an individual who had recently visited a Calgary Superstore while infectious, which prompted a public alert from Alberta Health Services (AHS) on January 29.

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According to the alert, anyone who was in the Real Canadian Superstore on Southport Road in southwest Calgary between 7:30 and 10 pm on Friday, January 19 may be at risk of developing measles.

AHS also notes that it is likely, though not confirmed, that the original exposure occurred on a plane travelling from London to Calgary on January 10. Anyone who was on the British Airways flight 103 that day may have also been exposed to the disease.

AHS is urging people who may have been at this Superstore location on that date or on the British Airways flight, and who have not had measles in the past or received two doses of measles vaccine, to monitor themselves for any signs of infection.

These signs include a fever of 38°C or higher, a cough, a runny nose, red eyes, and a red blotchy rash that develops behind the ears and on the face three to seven days after the fever begins.

If you are displaying these symptoms, you are advised to remain at home and call 811 (Health Link) before going to the doctor’s.

Measles is a highly infection disease as it can spread through the air, and there is no cure. Measles vaccines are offered free in Alberta, and locations offering the vaccination can be found through the Alberta Health Services website.