Measles in Alberta: First Death of the Year
Alberta’s health authorities confirmed the province’s first measles death of the year: a premature infant whose mother contracted measles during pregnancy. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange described the news as heartbreaking and stressed the ongoing vulnerability of newborns and pregnant people when the virus circulates. The case arrives as the province faces a broader outbreak that has touched families across the country.
A case that underscores risk
The infant’s death illustrates how measles can have severe consequences even in settings with strong health care. Measles is highly contagious and can lead to complications that require hospitalization. Alberta’s latest figures show the scope of the challenge: 1,910 measles cases reported since January, with 152 hospitalizations as of July.
Ontario’s related loss
In June, Ontario reported the death of a premature baby infected with measles, underscoring that the outbreak is not confined to a single province and that vulnerable newborns remain at elevated risk when the virus circulates widely.
A North American outbreak by the numbers
By July, Alberta recorded the highest per-capita measles activity in North America, signaling a surge that health authorities are closely watching and addressing through vaccination campaigns and public health messaging. The numbers highlight how quickly measles can spread in communities with gaps in immunity, and how important it is to maintain high vaccination coverage to shield the most vulnerable.
Why this matters for families
Why infants and pregnant people are most at risk
Newborns and pregnant individuals are among those most at risk from measles complications. Pregnant people who contract measles may face additional health concerns, and newborns rely on herd immunity to reduce exposure before they can receive their first doses of the vaccine.
What the public health response looks like
Public health authorities are emphasizing vaccination campaigns, catch-up clinics, and outreach to communities with lower immunization rates. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the best protection. Health officials remind families to verify vaccination status for children and to seek medical advice if exposure occurs or symptoms appear.
Protecting yourself and others
How to reduce your risk
Check your own immunization records and ensure children are up to date with the MMR vaccine. If you’re pregnant, avoid contact with anyone who has a fever or rash and speak with your healthcare provider about exposure or symptoms. Travelers should verify vaccination before travel and consider catching up on vaccines when feasible, especially to prevent spread across borders during outbreaks.
Looking ahead
The Alberta case underscores the ongoing need for vaccination, robust surveillance, and timely public health responses to contain measles outbreaks. Authorities will continue monitoring data, sharing updates, and engaging communities to prevent further losses and protect the most vulnerable populations.
