Alberta confirms babies born with measles amid a near 1,000-case outbreak. Doctors urge immunization to protect pregnant women and vulnerable infants.
Newborns Infected Amid Rising Measles Cases in Alberta
Alberta is facing a mounting health crisis as a near-record measles outbreak leads to confirmed cases of congenital measles—babies born already infected with the virus. According to Alberta Health, fewer than five infants have been born with measles in 2025, all to unimmunized mothers. The situation is causing growing concern among medical professionals and public health experts.
As of June 14, the province has reported 996 confirmed measles cases, with 85 hospitalizations, including 14 in intensive care. No deaths have been reported to date.
Pregnant Women Face Heightened Danger
Pregnant individuals are particularly at risk. Alberta Health confirms 20 measles cases in pregnant individuals, with fewer than five requiring hospital care. Medical experts stress the increased danger, including higher rates of pneumonia, preterm birth, and in rare cases, maternal death.
“There is a ten-fold increased risk of death from measles during pregnancy,” said Dr. Eliana Castillo, an obstetrician at the University of Calgary. “The risk to both mother and baby is serious and often underestimated.”
What Is Congenital Measles?
Congenital measles occurs when an unimmunized mother contracts the virus in the final weeks of pregnancy, passing it to the baby before birth. The condition can lead to brain inflammation, pneumonia, liver dysfunction, and even neurological damage.
“These babies can be critically ill,” said Dr. Amber Reichert, a neonatologist in Edmonton. “In some cases, the consequences are lifelong—or fatal.”
Data Not Publicly Shared
Alberta Health confirmed congenital cases after media inquiries but does not publish these figures routinely. Officials cite privacy concerns due to low numbers. Data provided was accurate as of June 12.
This limited disclosure has prompted criticism from health experts who believe more transparency is needed to inform the public and encourage immunization.
Vaccine Urged as Key Preventive Tool
Doctors are urging Albertans to ensure measles vaccinations are up to date, especially for those planning pregnancy. Immunized mothers pass antibodies to the fetus, offering early protection after birth.
“We urgently need more people immunized,” said Castillo. “That’s the best way to stop this from escalating.”
Emergency Measures and Therapies
Because the MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, the province is offering immune globulin therapy to exposed individuals, including infants under six months. This treatment must be administered within six days of exposure.
Since March, 52 individuals—including 37 infants—have received this therapy. Additionally, Alberta is administering early MMR doses to babies aged six months and older in high-risk zones.
Long-Term Risks for Infected Infants
Beyond immediate complications, congenital measles may lead to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal brain condition that appears years after infection.
“It’s a devastating outcome,” Reichert warned. “And it’s largely preventable with vaccination.”
Physicians Call for Public Awareness
Doctors say the lack of a robust public health campaign is putting lives at risk. “We need a coordinated effort to raise awareness about how serious measles can be during pregnancy,” Castillo said.
While Alberta Health shared some data after request, officials have not confirmed if they will routinely publish case updates moving forward.
Until then, frontline healthcare professionals are urging residents to take responsibility by protecting themselves and others—especially those too young or too vulnerable to be vaccinated.
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