Public health officials in Alberta are investigating potential measles exposures linked to travel on Cold Shot Bus Company routes between Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton, and Grande Prairie. The exposures occurred between March 10 and March 11, 2026, and health authorities are urging anyone who may have been affected to check their immunization records and monitor for symptoms. This incident underscores the continued importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of this highly contagious disease, particularly as measles cases have been rising globally in recent years.
The Alberta Health Services (AHS) advisory details specific dates and times of potential exposure at various bus terminals and on the buses themselves. Anyone born in or after 1970 who has fewer than two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or who has never had measles, is considered at risk. The concern stems from the ease with which measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Exposure Details and Travel Routes
According to AHS, the following locations and times are associated with potential exposure:
- Calgary Bus Terminal (1313 44 Ave NE): March 10, 2026, 16:45 p.m. – 20:50 p.m. (MST)
- Red Deer Bus Terminal (6607 67 ST): March 10, 2026, 18:00 p.m. – 20:30 p.m. (MST)
- Edmonton Bus Terminal (11550 154 Street NW): March 10, 2026, 22:30 p.m. – March 11, 2026, 01:30 a.m. (MST)
- Grande Prairie Bus Terminal (9501 113 St.): March 11, 2026, 04:30 a.m. – 06:30 a.m. (MST)
- Cold Shot Bus Company Ride (Calgary to Edmonton): Departing Calgary March 10 at 18:20 p.m., arriving Edmonton 22:30 p.m.
- Cold Shot Bus Company Ride (Edmonton to Grande Prairie): Departing Edmonton March 10 at 23:50 p.m., arriving Grande Prairie March 11 at 04:30 a.m.
These times encompass both periods when passengers were boarding, disembarking, and traveling on the buses. AHS is specifically advising individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times to be vigilant for symptoms.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Measles
Measles typically begins with a high fever – 38.3°C (101°F) or higher – accompanied by a cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A characteristic rash usually appears three to seven days after the fever starts. This rash typically begins behind the ears and on the face, then spreads downward to the body, arms, and legs. It’s important to note that the appearance of the rash can vary depending on skin tone; on lighter skin, it appears red and blotchy, while on darker skin, it may appear purple or darker than the surrounding skin, or it may be more difficult to observe.
Early detection is crucial, but it’s equally important to avoid potentially spreading the virus. If symptoms develop, individuals are strongly advised to stay home and contact the dedicated measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434 before seeking medical attention at a clinic, hospital, or pharmacy. This allows healthcare providers to take appropriate precautions to prevent further transmission.
Vaccination and Protective Measures
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles infection and its potentially serious complications. Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first at one year of age and the second at 18 months.
For those who may have been exposed and are unsure of their vaccination status, a dose of the vaccine, if administered within 72 hours of exposure, can significantly reduce the risk of infection. 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 as a preventative measure. Again, the measles hotline (1-844-944-3434) is the best resource for determining eligibility and accessing these options.
Albertans aged 14 and older can conveniently check their immunization records through My Health Record. Texting ‘Measles’ to 88111 provides access to important health information via mobile device.
Understanding the Risk and Staying Informed
The current situation highlights the vulnerability of communities where vaccination rates are lower. Measles is not simply a childhood illness; it can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. Protecting oneself and others through vaccination is a critical public health responsibility.
AHS continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as they grow available. For the most current information on measles in Alberta, visit alberta.ca/measles.
The next update from Alberta Health Services regarding this potential exposure is expected on March 17, 2026, when officials will assess the number of reported cases and determine if further public health measures are necessary. We encourage readers to share this information with family and friends, particularly those who may have traveled on Cold Shot Bus Company during the affected dates. Your comments and questions are welcome below.
