Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a public health alert after a confirmed case of measles was identified in the Central Zone, with potential public exposure at a hotel in Rocky Mountain House.

Officials say anyone who was at the Tamarack Motor Inn (4904 45 Street) between 10 p.m. on July 9 and noon on July 10 may have been exposed to the virus.

The advisory is specifically directed at those born in or after 1970 who have received fewer than two doses of a measles-containing vaccine. AHS recommends those individuals review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms.

Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air even hours after an infected person has left the area. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red or blotchy rash that usually appears three to seven days after the fever begins.

Counselling is available through the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434, which Albertans are urged to call before visiting any health facility if symptoms appear.

AHS says anyone exposed who is unvaccinated may still be eligible for post-exposure protection, either through the measles vaccine — if given within 72 hours — or immune globulin for high-risk individuals within six days.

As a precaution, additional measles immunizations are also being offered in the Central Zone, including early doses for infants aged six to 11 months.

Albertans can check their immunization records via MyHealth Records or call the hotline for assistance.