The Lethbridge Community Health clinic. (Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Whooping cough outbreak declared over in southern Alberta

Feb 6, 2020 | 3:42 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Residents of southern Alberta can breathe a sigh of relief.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has officially ended the outbreak of whooping cough (pertussis) that was declared on October 15, 2019.

During the outbreak, there were 34 confirmed cases and two probable cases of pertussis. There were no hospitalizations or deaths.

“Of these 36 confirmed and probable cases, 16 were unimmunized, nine were partially immunized and 11 were considered to be up-to-date for pertussis-containing vaccine,” reads a media release from AHS.

The cases were located in Lethbridge, Raymond, Purple Springs, Picture Butte, Nobleford, Bow Island, Taber, and Diamond City.

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AHS says immunization is the best and most effective method to protect against and limit the spread of pertussis.

“All South Zone residents are encouraged to keep up-to-date with their immunizations and to do the same for children and families.”

“Anyone uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s, can contact Health Link at 811 at any time of day, or their local community health centre or public health office during work hours to discuss, review and/or to book an appointment to complete any required immunizations.”

To learn more about pertussis, use this link. More information on vaccination schedules can be found here.