July 23, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Health professionals in Alberta are sounding the alarm as the province experiences a surge in measles cases, now leading North America with over 1,400 confirmed infections.
The Alberta Medical Association hosted an expert panel Tuesday to discuss the growing crisis, with pediatrician Dr. Tehseen Ladha stressing the seriousness of the disease.
“There’s a common misconception that measles is just a routine childhood illness—but it’s not,” said Dr. Ladha. “It’s one of the most contagious viruses on Earth, and its risk of complications makes it a public health concern we must take seriously.”
Measles can be transmitted through the air and linger in the environment for up to two hours, Ladha explained, adding that it becomes contagious even before the telltale rash appears.
Dr. Ladha emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective defense against the virus. While rare side effects from the vaccine exist—such as fever-related seizures occurring in one out of every 3,000 to 4,000 cases—she noted that the risks of contracting measles are significantly higher.
“There’s a one in 10 chance someone with measles will need hospitalization, and one in 1,000 may develop encephalitis, a dangerous brain inflammation,” Ladha said. “When we compare those figures, it’s clear that the illness poses far greater risks than the vaccine.”
Health authorities continue to urge Albertans to get vaccinated, particularly as the outbreak shows no sign of slowing down.
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