Measles cases on the rise in Alberta

 

 

Measles cases are on the rise in Alberta. 43 cases have been reported. Authorities are urging the public to be vigilant. The majority of cases have been reported in Two Hills. As of Tuesday afternoon, 21 of the 43 reported measles cases are in the Central Zone. Seven new cases have been confirmed in the past 24 hours.

All but four of the 43 confirmed cases are in people under the age of 18. Measles, which was declared eradicated from Canada in 1998, is now making a comeback. Low vaccination rates have contributed to the rapid spread of the disease in recent months. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange said the province's top doctors have urged the government to take more preventive measures to stop the spread. The Edmonton Zone Medical Staff Association has blamed the government's inaction for the spread. The association called on the government to launch a vaccination program and take steps to make people more aware of the disease. There are indications that the disease is likely to be reported across Alberta, including Airdrie, Calgary, Edmonton, Fort Vermilion and Lethbridge.