Alberta Health Services Logo (Photo Credits - AHS)
An outbreak of pertussis (Whooping cough) has been declared by Alberta Health Services (AHS) on Jan 26 2023 in the South Zone of Alberta which now has 146 identified cases. The number has since increased up to 126 as of April 20.
The newly-reported cases indicated the outbreak in now present in Medicine Hat and Lethbridge, as well as smaller communities in the zone. Cases have been identified at schools and other community locations such as churches and sites where children gather to take lessons.
Majority of the cases are amongst children between one and nine years old, but some adults have also been affected. Newborns and young children are most vulnerable for severe illness and complications. Five children have required hospitalization during the course of the outbreak.
AHS is issuing a reminder to all people of the importance of immunization, particularly in small children, to prevent further illness.
If you suspect that you are experiencing pertussis, seek medical assessment first by calling your primary care provider or 811 for potential treatment.
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