Alberta has become the second Canadian province, after Ontario, to cross more than 1,000 confirmed measles cases in 2025
Alberta faces a measles surge, with over 1,000 cases reported. Congenital infections are also confirmed. Experts warn of a summer spike due to increased travel. Edmonton reports new cases after a period of lull. Vaccination rates need improvement to prevent severe outcomes. Ontario has over 2,000 cases. Canada risks losing its measles elimination status if action is not taken faster.
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Situation in Ontario
Health officials confirmed 24 new infections within a single day, bringing the total to 1,020 by Friday noon(June 20). Of those, 25 cases remain active. Though no deaths have been reported in Alberta , experts warn the situation is becoming more serious, particularly for vulnerable populations.Alberta's Primary and Preventive Health Services Ministry confirmed that at least one baby has been born with congenital measles . While exact numbers were not shared, officials stated there were 'fewer than five' such cases, all involving unvaccinated mothers. Additionally, 20 pregnant individuals have contracted measles, with fewer than five requiring hospitalization.Measles is highly contagious but largely preventable through vaccination. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella ( MMR ) vaccine offer nearly complete protection. Experts say 95 percent vaccine coverage is necessary to achieve herd immunity, a benchmark many areas in Alberta still fall short of.Dr. James Talbot, Alberta's former chief medical officer of health, says the 1,000-case milestone is a warning sign: 'If the measures were working, we'd see the numbers going down and we wouldn't see spread to new areas. And both of those are happening.'Talbot expects a summer spike in infections as travel increases, warning that cities like Edmonton, which had avoided major outbreaks, could soon see a rise. Alberta Health Services (AHS) reported the first new Edmonton cases on Friday since early May, just a day after warning of exposures in the city, including at the Stollery Children's Hospital on June 18 and 19.Anyone born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented MMR doses may be at risk.Alberta has administered more than 67,000 measles vaccine doses, a 55 percent increase over the same period last year. In the South Zone, uptake rose 130 percent. Still, health experts worry that if immunization rates don't improve, more severe outcomes such as brain damage, miscarriage, and death could follow.According to national data, between one and three in every 1,000 measles patients die. Another one in 1,000 may develop encephalitis, a potentially fatal brain inflammation.Ontario, the first province to pass 1,000 cases in April, now reports nearly 2,180 cases, including six congenital infections and one infant death. Combined, Ontario and Alberta now account for more than 90 percent of all measles cases in Canada this year.'If we don't act faster,' Dr. Talbot warns, 'Canada could lose its measles elimination status by October, a public health achievement held since 1998.'For now, AHS urges anyone experiencing symptoms, fever over 38.3°C, cough, red eyes, or a rash, to call the measles hotline (1-844-944-3434) before visiting clinics or hospitals.
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Economic Times
21 hours ago
- Economic Times
Alberta has become the second Canadian province, after Ontario, to cross more than 1,000 confirmed measles cases in 2025
What is measles? Live Events Situation in Ontario (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Health officials confirmed 24 new infections within a single day, bringing the total to 1,020 by Friday noon(June 20). Of those, 25 cases remain active. Though no deaths have been reported in Alberta , experts warn the situation is becoming more serious, particularly for vulnerable Primary and Preventive Health Services Ministry confirmed that at least one baby has been born with congenital measles. While exact numbers were not shared, officials stated there were 'fewer than five' such cases, all involving unvaccinated mothers. Additionally, 20 pregnant individuals have contracted measles , with fewer than five requiring is highly contagious but largely preventable through vaccination. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella ( MMR ) vaccine offer nearly complete protection. Experts say 95 percent vaccine coverage is necessary to achieve herd immunity, a benchmark many areas in Alberta still fall short James Talbot, Alberta's former chief medical officer of health, says the 1,000-case milestone is a warning sign: 'If the measures were working, we'd see the numbers going down and we wouldn't see spread to new areas. And both of those are happening.'Talbot expects a summer spike in infections as travel increases, warning that cities like Edmonton, which had avoided major outbreaks, could soon see a rise. Alberta Health Services (AHS) reported the first new Edmonton cases on Friday since early May, just a day after warning of exposures in the city, including at the Stollery Children's Hospital on June 18 and born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented MMR doses may be at has administered more than 67,000 measles vaccine doses, a 55 percent increase over the same period last year. In the South Zone, uptake rose 130 percent. Still, health experts worry that if immunization rates don't improve, more severe outcomes such as brain damage, miscarriage, and death could to national data, between one and three in every 1,000 measles patients die. Another one in 1,000 may develop encephalitis, a potentially fatal brain the first province to pass 1,000 cases in April, now reports nearly 2,180 cases, including six congenital infections and one infant death. Combined, Ontario and Alberta now account for more than 90 percent of all measles cases in Canada this year.'If we don't act faster,' Dr. Talbot warns, 'Canada could lose its measles elimination status by October, a public health achievement held since 1998.'For now, AHS urges anyone experiencing symptoms, fever over 38.3°C, cough, red eyes, or a rash, to call the measles hotline (1-844-944-3434) before visiting clinics or hospitals.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Alberta has become the second Canadian province, after Ontario, to cross more than 1,000 confirmed measles cases in 2025
Alberta faces a measles surge, with over 1,000 cases reported. Congenital infections are also confirmed. Experts warn of a summer spike due to increased travel. Edmonton reports new cases after a period of lull. Vaccination rates need improvement to prevent severe outcomes. Ontario has over 2,000 cases. Canada risks losing its measles elimination status if action is not taken faster. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads What is measles? Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Situation in Ontario Health officials confirmed 24 new infections within a single day, bringing the total to 1,020 by Friday noon(June 20). Of those, 25 cases remain active. Though no deaths have been reported in Alberta , experts warn the situation is becoming more serious, particularly for vulnerable Primary and Preventive Health Services Ministry confirmed that at least one baby has been born with congenital measles . While exact numbers were not shared, officials stated there were 'fewer than five' such cases, all involving unvaccinated mothers. Additionally, 20 pregnant individuals have contracted measles, with fewer than five requiring is highly contagious but largely preventable through vaccination. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella ( MMR ) vaccine offer nearly complete protection. Experts say 95 percent vaccine coverage is necessary to achieve herd immunity, a benchmark many areas in Alberta still fall short James Talbot, Alberta's former chief medical officer of health, says the 1,000-case milestone is a warning sign: 'If the measures were working, we'd see the numbers going down and we wouldn't see spread to new areas. And both of those are happening.'Talbot expects a summer spike in infections as travel increases, warning that cities like Edmonton, which had avoided major outbreaks, could soon see a rise. Alberta Health Services (AHS) reported the first new Edmonton cases on Friday since early May, just a day after warning of exposures in the city, including at the Stollery Children's Hospital on June 18 and born in or after 1970 with fewer than two documented MMR doses may be at has administered more than 67,000 measles vaccine doses, a 55 percent increase over the same period last year. In the South Zone, uptake rose 130 percent. Still, health experts worry that if immunization rates don't improve, more severe outcomes such as brain damage, miscarriage, and death could to national data, between one and three in every 1,000 measles patients die. Another one in 1,000 may develop encephalitis, a potentially fatal brain the first province to pass 1,000 cases in April, now reports nearly 2,180 cases, including six congenital infections and one infant death. Combined, Ontario and Alberta now account for more than 90 percent of all measles cases in Canada this year.'If we don't act faster,' Dr. Talbot warns, 'Canada could lose its measles elimination status by October, a public health achievement held since 1998.'For now, AHS urges anyone experiencing symptoms, fever over 38.3°C, cough, red eyes, or a rash, to call the measles hotline (1-844-944-3434) before visiting clinics or hospitals.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
World's most contagious disease threatens millions after case reported in Texas
Image: iStock A fully vaccinated woman in her mid-20s has tested positive for measles in Dallas County, Texas. This triggered a red alert across one of America's most populous regions. Though vaccinated, she was contagious for over a week, from May 30 to June 7, potentially exposing thousands at locations in Dallas and nearby Plano, according to a report of Daily Mail. This is the first reported case in Dallas amid a larger outbreak that has already infected nearly 800 people statewide and claimed the lives of two children. The case has raised alarm bells as health officials race to contain what's been dubbed the world's most contagious disease. First case of measles sparks alarm amid ongoing Texas outbreak The infected woman visited Lemma Coffee in downtown Plano on May 31 and the First Baptist Church on June 1. Authorities are now tracking her movements and notifying potentially exposed individuals. Although this is currently classified as an isolated incident, it coincides with a growing outbreak across Texas — with 744 confirmed cases and 96 hospitalizations since January. Two deaths have been reported in unvaccinated school-aged children, intensifying the public health response. Why measles is one of the most dangerous and contagious viruses in the world Measles is far from a harmless childhood illness. It spreads through the air and remains active on surfaces for up to two hours, infecting 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to it. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Order New Blinds Online & Get $199 Home Installation Learn More Undo Symptoms begin with a fever, cough, and runny nose, but rapidly develop into tell-tale red rashes and small white spots inside the mouth. If untreated or contracted by vulnerable individuals, it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. Vaccinated but still infected: Understanding breakthrough measles cases Although the woman in Dallas was fully vaccinated, rare "breakthrough" infections can occur. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is 97% effective after two doses, but no vaccine offers absolute protection. Still, vaccinated individuals typically experience milder symptoms and are less likely to transmit the disease. The greatest concern lies with the unvaccinated population, especially children under 5 and individuals with weakened immune systems. CDC issues travel advisory: Airports and crowded spaces can be hotspots The CDC warns that travelers are at heightened risk, especially in crowded places like airports, train stations, and large events. Infected travelers can unknowingly carry the virus across state and national borders, spreading it to communities with lower vaccination coverage. The advisory urges travelers to verify their immunity and ensure they're up to date on MMR vaccinations before flying, particularly to or from international destinations. Falling vaccination rates are fueling measles' dangerous comeback A troubling national trend is worsening the outbreak: childhood MMR vaccination rates are slipping. A Johns Hopkins University study found that 78% of US. counties saw declines in MMR coverage in 2024. The national average now stands at 91% — well below the 95% threshold needed to maintain herd immunity. If this continues, measles could shift from an occasional threat to a recurring public health crisis, reversing the US. 's 2000 declaration that the virus had been eliminated. Preventive measures for measles Get vaccinated: Ensure that all children receive two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine — first between 12–15 months and the second between 4–6 years of age. Early dose for infants before travel: Babies aged 6–11 months should receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine if traveling internationally or to outbreak-prone areas. Check adult immunity: Adults born after 1957 should confirm their vaccination records or get a blood test to check for measles immunity. Avoid exposure during outbreaks: Limit visits to crowded places like airports, public transportation, and large gatherings if there's a known outbreak in your area. Practice good hygiene: Regular handwashing, avoiding touching your face, and disinfecting frequently-touched surfaces can reduce the risk of viral transmission. Isolate if infected: Anyone diagnosed with measles should stay isolated for at least four days after the rash appears to avoid infecting others. Stay informed: Monitor local health alerts and follow public health guidelines during measles outbreaks, especially when traveling What to do if you think you've been exposed to measles According to Daily Mail, Dallas County health officials urge anyone who visited Lemma Coffee on May 31 between 9 a.m. and noon or First Baptist Church on June 1 between 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to contact their healthcare provider immediately. Watch for symptoms like fever, coughing, and rash for up to 21 days after possible exposure. Adults unsure of their immunity should consult a doctor, and parents are urged to ensure their children are fully vaccinated. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
