Measles and Back to School
On behalf of the Interim Chief Medical Officer of Health, please find attached information about measles:
August 27, 2025
Dear Parents and Guardians
As measles continues to spread in some areas and communities in Alberta, across Canada and globally, our collective efforts are making a difference with the support of parents and communities. As we approach the beginning of the school year, I want to share important information about measles and how you can continue to protect your family, your community and our schools.
Measles is a highly contagious illness that can lead to serious complications, particularly for young children, pregnant women and vulnerable individuals. Measles spreads quickly, especially in close-knit communities where people gather frequently and where immunization rates are lower.
Children under 18 years have been most affected by the current measles outbreak in Canada. As of August 8, 2025, Alberta has reported more than 1,700 confirmed measles cases, with more than 1,200 of those in children under the age of 18.
Alberta’s government is taking measles seriously with ongoing efforts to prevent measles and protect the health of all Albertans, especially children. This includes the provincial “Don’t get measles. Get immunized.” awareness campaign, a dedicated measles information web page and a measles hotline (1-844-944-3434) to check immunization records and book appointments. Public Health has also expanded local measles clinics, offering extended hours and additional locations to meet community needs.
As children head back to school, I want to remind everyone that the best protection against measles is ensuring you and your children have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine after the age of 12 months. The vaccine has a long-proven record of safety and is highly effective at preventing infection and associated complications.
Please be assured that if a measles case is reported at your child’s school, clear public health protocols are in place to limit the spread of measles and protect students and staff. Schools have a key role in sharing information and supporting quick action. If your child has received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine after the age of 12 months, they are considered protected against the virus. If your child is not fully immunized or is diagnosed with measles, Public Health will provide guidance to help prevent further spread.
For those who have chosen not to immunize, it is important to know that measles can cause serious harm, particularly in children and other vulnerable individuals. While getting your measles immunization is the most critical step to take, if you are feeling sick or have been exposed to measles, you should also:
- Stay home when feeling sick.
- Avoid close contact with others.
- Call Health Link at 811 before visiting any hospital, clinic or health care provider.
We remain committed to protecting the health and safety of all Albertans by providing public health communications and recommendations through diverse platforms, including these additional measles resources:
- Text for vaccine record: To check the immunization record for you or your child, text “vaccine record” to 88111. This information is also available through the hotline at 1-844-944-3434.
- Fact sheets: The measles toolkit is available online, which includes Measles 101 and Measles and back to school: information for parents and guardians that you may find useful.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and support to keep our schools and families safe. If you have any questions about this letter or measles in general, please call the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 or visit our measles website at: https://www.alberta.ca/measles.
Sincerely,
Dr. Sunil Sookram
Interim Chief Medical Officer of Health