39 new cases of measles reported in Alberta; provincial total now at 365 since early March

The number of confirmed measles cases in Alberta is continuing to soar.

The number of measles cases in Alberta continues to spike.

The province has reported 39 new cases of measles, bringing the total to 365 since early March.

The government says 30 of the new cases are in Alberta’s south zone, which has seen more than half of all cases.

Nearly 300 of Alberta’s total cases have been in youth under 18, with 114 cases reported in children under 5.

The government says that as of earlier this month, 19 people have been hospitalized, with at least three children needing intensive care.

The Alberta Medical Association has said cases are likely much higher than what has been reported and it expects cases to continue to rise.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange announced last week that Alberta planned to launch a new vaccination campaign in an effort to slow the spread of the highly contagious disease.