Whooping cough hits Okotoks as Alberta outbreaks drag on

A new pertussis outbreak in Okotoks is prompting health officials, once again, to warn Albertans to protect themselves against the illness with immunization.

According to Alberta Health Services, 17 cases of the disease, also  known as whooping cough, have been confirmed in the Okotoks area since November, including one person who was hospitalized.

Another 22 cases have been identified in other parts of the Calgary zone during the same period for a total of 39 cases. All of these cases were locally acquired, AHS said in a health advisory issued Tuesday.

The latest rash of outbreaks began more than a year ago in the south zone. Last month, AHS confirmed 966 cases had been reported since November 2022.

"Pertussis is a bacterial infection that causes severe and prolonged coughing that lasts for weeks," the latest statement said.

"It can impact people of all ages; however, infants one year and younger are at greatest risk of serious complications, including pneumonia, convulsions, brain damage and death."

According to AHS,  between one and four pertussis-related deaths are reported each year in Canada, most often babies who are too young to be immunized or children who are not yet fully vaccinated.

As case counts continue to tick up, health officials are urging Albertans to take steps to limit the spread of pertussis.

"Immunization is the best method to protect against and limit the spread of pertussis, along with regular hand washing, covering coughs, staying home when sick and remembering not to share drinks, food or cutlery," the advisory said.

Alberta's routine childhood immunization rates have dropped in recent years.

The schedule recommends babies receive their first dose of the vaccine that protects against pertussis (dTAP) at two months of age, with further doses at four, six and 18 months.

Boosters are also given when children are four years old and again in Grade 9.

"Pertussis immunization is safe and effective against preventing severe illness," AHS said.

"It is free of charge for all children less than 18 years of age, people who are in the third trimester of pregnancy (27 weeks), and adults who have not had a … booster in the past 10 years."