Alberta Health Services issued a public health alert on February 27, 2026, regarding a measles exposure at the Strathcona Community Hospital in Sherwood Park, Alberta. Health officials are warning anyone who visited the emergency waiting room on February 16, 2026, between 1:40 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. that they may have been exposed to the virus.
Residents who were at the hospital during those hours should check their immunization records and watch for symptoms of the highly contagious disease. Common signs of measles include a high fever, a cough, and a characteristic red, blotchy rash that eventually spreads across the body.
The alert comes as the province reports 16 confirmed measles cases so far in 2026. This follows a record year in 2025 where Alberta saw more than 2,000 cases, a situation that led to Canada losing its international status as a country that had eliminated measles.
Individuals who are pregnant, have infants under one year old, or have weakened immune systems are encouraged to contact health officials immediately for potential preventive treatment. These residents can call the Alberta Health Services Measles Hotline at 1-844-944-3434 to discuss their risk and history.
Health officials recommend that all community members ensure their vaccinations are up to date to help prevent further spread. Measles is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world, but it is easily prevented through standard immunization programs available to the public.
