Premature baby dies of measles in Alberta outbreak's 1st death

Alberta is reporting its first measles death since outbreaks of the highly contagious illness began in the province in March.

The province says a baby, who was born prematurely after the mother became sick, died shortly after birth.

"Since measles cases were first reported in Alberta this spring, I had hoped this moment would not come," Adriana LaGrange, the Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services said in an emailed statement, noting she was saddened to share the news.

"I am saddened to share that we have had our first death from measles in the province. A child, born prematurely after the mother contracted measles during pregnancy, died shortly after birth."

Children under five, pregnant individuals and people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk from measles infections.

And measles during pregnancy can lead to serious complications including miscarriage, preterm labour, stillbirth and congenital infection, LaGrange said.

"This is a heartbreaking loss, and no words can capture the pain of losing a child. My sincere condolences go to the family during this profoundly difficult time," she said.

LaGrange is urging vaccination, particularly among those who are planning a family.

"Anyone planning a pregnancy should ensure they have received two doses of measles-containing vaccine prior to conception, as vaccination during pregnancy is not recommended," said LaGrange.

"If you are unsure of your immunization status, call 811 or visit alberta.ca/measles for information. Please take steps to protect yourself and those most vulnerable in our communities."

Doctors have been warning for months about the seriousness of the outbreaks, which surpassed case counts for the entire United States over the summer.

Provincial data shows 1,914 measles cases have been confirmed since March, including 152 Albertans who have been hospitalized. There have been 15 intensive care unit admissions.

According to the Alberta government website, between one and three out of every 1,000 people infected with measles will die.

The province launched a measles public awareness campaign in April and says immunization uptake has increased, compared to last year, in the months since that began.