Vaccination efforts making a difference in battle against measles

By Dr. Sunil Sookram
Alberta Interim Chief Medical Officer of Health

Measles remains one of the most contagious illnesses in the world, spreading through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. In recent months, measles has been spreading in Alberta, across Canada and around the world.

While measles can be serious for anyone, it’s especially dangerous during pregnancy. Infection increases the risk of miscarriage, early, low birth weight, and even infant death. In rare but devastating cases, the virus passes to the unborn child, causing congenital measles—a serious condition that can lead to lifelong disability or death. Pregnant individuals also face a far greater risk of severe complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization.

So far in 2025, fewer than five babies in Alberta have been diagnosed with congenital measles—all born to mothers who were not immunized. Some required intensive care. There have also been 46 confirmed cases among pregnant individuals, with fewer than five hospitalizations. While the numbers are low, they serve as a stark reminder of what can happen when immunity gaps persist. If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to measles, stay home and contact your health care provider, midwife or Health Link at 811 for further guidance.

If you’re planning to get pregnant or considering it, ensure you receive two doses of the vaccine at least one month before conception. Although the vaccine isn’t given during pregnancy, immune mothers can pass temporary protection to their newborns — a crucial safeguard, since babies under six months are too young to be immunized. In some cases, immune globulin may be offered to exposed pregnant individuals or infants, but it provides only short-term protection. Being immunized before pregnancy provides the best protection from getting infected.

Canada eliminated measles in 1998 through strong routine immunization programs. But outbreaks can still happen. In areas where immunization coverage is low, measles can spread more easily and quietly, making it harder to control.

As children head back to school or start homeschooling, now is the time to check your immunization status as well as that of your children. Whether in classrooms, homeschool co-ops, or community programs, children are often in close contact. Even if one child is unprotected, measles can spread rapidly – putting classmates, siblings, and vulnerable individuals at risk. 

The good news? Vaccination efforts across Alberta are making a difference. Since March 16, more than 92,000 measles vaccines have been given – a 56 per cent increase over last year. Uptake has risen by 119 per cent in the South Zone and 92 per cent in the North. Early doses for babies aged 6 to 11 months in high-risk areas have increased by 432 per cent, thanks to targeted outreach.

Since mid-May, Alberta has run a provincewide immunization campaign in more than 14 languages. The message is clear: Don’t get measles. Get immunized. With strong uptake continuing, the campaign is being extended and will include new messaging focused on back-to-school season and pregnancy.

While weekly case numbers have fluctuated, we’re encouraged by the lack of any sustained upward trend. Expanded clinics, focused outreach, and consistent public health messaging are helping to ensure this important information reaches all Albertans and helps to slow the spread.

Still, the work isn’t done. Community protection depends on immunization rates of 95 per cent or higher. Getting both doses of the vaccine is a simple but powerful way to protect our homes, schools, and communities.

If you’re unsure about your immunization status or that of your children, speak with your doctor or midwife. You can also call Alberta’s measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 to check your records, ask questions and book an appointment.