Alberta health officials are alerting residents to potential measles exposure following confirmed cases and travel on Cold Shot Bus Company routes between Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton, and Grande Prairie. The exposure window spans from March 10th to March 11th, 2026, prompting a call for individuals who travelled on these routes or visited the affected bus terminals to check their immunization records.
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, poses a risk to those not adequately protected through vaccination or previous infection. This outbreak underscores the importance of maintaining high immunization rates to prevent the spread of this potentially serious disease. Public health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and urging anyone with concerns to seek information and guidance.
Exposure Details and Affected Locations
The Alberta Health Services alert details specific exposure periods at several Cold Shot Bus Company locations. Individuals who were present at the following locations during the specified times may be at risk:
- March 10, 2026, 18:00 p.m. – 20:30 p.m. (MST): Cold Shot Bus Company – Red Deer Bus Terminal, 6607 67 ST, Red Deer
- March 10, 2026, 22:05 p.m. – 00:05 a.m. (MST): Cold Shot Bus Company – Edmonton Bus Terminal, 11550 154 Street NW, Edmonton
- March 10, 2026, 22:30 p.m. – March 11, 2026, 01:30 a.m. (MST): Cold Shot Bus Company – Grande Prairie Bus Terminal, 9501 113 St, Grande Prairie
- March 10, 2026, 16:45 p.m. – 20:50 p.m. (MST): Cold Shot Bus Company – Calgary Bus Terminal, 1313 44 Ave NE, Calgary
- March 10, 2026, 18:20 p.m. – March 11, 2026, 04:30 a.m. (MST): The Cold Shot Bus Company Ride from Calgary via Red Deer to Edmonton and Edmonton to Grande Prairie.
Anyone born in or after 1970 who has received fewer than two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or who has never had measles, is considered potentially susceptible. These individuals are advised to monitor for symptoms and review their immunization history.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Measles
Measles typically begins with a fever of 38.3°C (101°F) or higher, accompanied by a cough, runny nose, and/or red eyes. A characteristic rash usually appears 3 to 7 days after the onset of fever, starting behind the ears and on the face before spreading down the body to the arms and legs. The rash can appear red and blotchy on lighter skin tones, but may present as purple or darker than surrounding skin, or be difficult to see, on darker skin tones.
If you develop these symptoms, health officials strongly advise staying home and contacting the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility, including a family physician’s office or pharmacy. This precaution helps prevent potential spread within healthcare settings.
Vaccination and Prevention
The measles vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection and its complications. In Alberta, the vaccine is available free of charge through the province’s publicly funded immunization program. The recommended schedule involves two doses: the first at one year of age and the second at 18 months.
For those who believe they may have been exposed and are not fully protected, vaccination within 72 hours of exposure can still offer protection. Infants under one year of age, individuals with severely weakened immune systems, and pregnant individuals may be eligible for immunoglobulin within six days of exposure. Further information is available by calling the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434.
Albertans unsure of their immunization status can check their eligibility and book an appointment through the same hotline. Individuals 14 years of age and older can also access their immunization records using My Health Record. You can also text ‘Measles’ to 88111 to receive measles health information on your mobile device.
For the most up-to-date information on the measles situation in Alberta, please visit alberta.ca/measles.
Health officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. The public’s cooperation in checking immunization records and seeking guidance when necessary is crucial in containing this outbreak and protecting the health of all Albertans.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about a public health issue and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
Have you or someone you know been affected by this potential exposure? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
