March 12, 2024
OKOTOKS — An increase of pertussis (whooping cough) cases has been identified in the Okotoks area, and Alberta Health Services (AHS) is reminding residents and visitors to take steps to protect themselves and others from the disease.
Pertussis is a bacterial infection that causes severe and prolonged coughing that lasts for weeks. 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.
Since November 2023, 17 cases of pertussis have been identified in the Okotoks area, all locally acquired. Of these cases, one individual required hospitalization. A total of 39 cases, including Okotoks, have been confirmed in all of Calgary Zone during this time.
Pertussis illness starts with a runny nose, sneezing, fever, and mild cough. Typically, over the duration of a week, the cough will become more severe with repetitive coughing spells. In younger children, these coughing spells are usually followed by a ‘whooping’ sound when inhaling. Vomiting following a coughing spell is also common.
If an individual thinks they may be sick with pertussis, they should stay home and call a family physician or Health Link at 811, before seeking medical care. People with confirmed pertussis should stay home until five days of treatment with appropriate antibiotics have been completed.
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. Pertussis immunization is safe and effective against preventing severe illness. In Alberta, 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 tetanus booster in the past 10 years. Pertussis vaccine in Alberta also protects against tetanus and diphtheria.
For more information about vaccines, to check if you are up to date on your vaccines, or to book a vaccine appointment, contact Health Link at 811. Albertans can text ‘Whooping Cough’ to 88111 to receive general information on whooping cough symptoms, treatment and how to prevent it from spreading. Data charges may apply.
Albertans can also ask their primary healthcare provider if they have questions. Additional information on pertussis and immunizations can be found online at the following links:
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait-times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.
