Alberta has now recorded more cases of measles than the entire United States has reported this year. Since March, the province has been facing outbreaks, and by noon on Monday, the total number of cases had surged to 1,314. In comparison, the United States has documented 1,288 cases this year, as per the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dr. Sam Wong, the president of the section of pediatrics at the Alberta Medical Association, expressed sadness over the escalating numbers. He highlighted the importance of early intervention and serious attention to prevent reaching a point where one province surpasses the entire U.S. case count, despite the U.S. having a population ten times larger than Canada.
Between midday Friday and noon Monday, thirty new cases were reported, prompting concerns from Dr. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious diseases specialist at the University of Alberta, who described the current spread as “absolutely terrible” and of a massive scale.
Health experts and officials believe that Alberta’s confirmed case counts do not fully reflect the actual situation, with ongoing exposure advisories in place due to widespread transmission in the south zone and parts of the north.
The Alberta government’s measles website indicates that cases are likely going unreported and undetected. Saxinger expressed worries about the potential impact of large summer gatherings like the recently concluded Calgary Stampede, followed by the return of school, creating a period of vulnerability to increasing numbers.
The outbreaks have predominantly affected the south, north, and central health zones, leading to 102 hospitalizations, including 15 ICU admissions, as of July 5, according to provincial data. There have been no reported deaths. During the week of June 22 to June 28, 58% of new cases reported nationally were in Alberta, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
Craig Jenne, a professor at the University of Calgary specializing in microbiology, immunology, and infectious diseases, highlighted the concerning transmission rate of measles in Alberta, stating that per capita, the province has more cases than anywhere else in North America.
Measles is highly contagious and can result in severe complications, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Saxinger called for urgent measures, including mass vaccination clinics, targeted outreach, and improved vaccine messaging.
The Alberta government defended its response to the measles outbreaks, mentioning expanded vaccination clinics, targeted outreach efforts, and positive results from current public health strategies. Despite challenges, the government stated that active cases have stabilized in most health zones, with ongoing efforts to contain further spread and support those affected.