Alberta Health Services has identified 17 confirmed cases of pertussis whooping cough in the South Albeta Zone, prompting AHS to declare an outbreak.

In addition to the 17 cases, the Calgary area had 8 confirmed cases of whooping cough last week in Okotoks, but AHS has not declared it an outbreak for Calgary and Area. Bruce Conway with AHS said due to the localized nature of those cases, an outbreak is unlikely.

Conway did say there is always a risk of contracting whooping cough. Last year in the Calgary Zone, of which Airdrie is included, there were 88 confirmed cases. So far this year, there have been 17. The best method for prevention is immunization.

Whooping cough is highly contagious with the first stages presenting like a common cold with runny nose, fever and mild cough. After the first week the cough becomes more severe with coughing fits that sound like a high pitched whooping sound. The cough can last up to 10 weeks. 

For infants under a year, the bacterial infection can be fatal. The infant may have little to no cough but stop breathing for short periods of time.

To find out if your vaccinations are up to date, you can contact the Airdrie Community Health Centre.

 

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