Localized pertussis outbreak in Calgary Zone school

CALGARY – Alberta Health Services (AHS) has declared an outbreak of whooping cough (pertussis) at Waldorf School (515 Cougar Drive S.W., Calgary), and will be offering additional immunization opportunities to the school population to reduce risk of further spread of the illness.

Though these particular school cases are not considered a risk to the general public at this time, this outbreak does serve as a reminder of the importance of immunization, particularly to protect children and other at-risk individuals.

A bacterial infection that causes severe coughing that lasts for weeks, pertussis can lead to pneumonia, convulsions, brain damage and even death.

There have been 19 cases of pertussis in the Calgary Zone this year, eight of which are linked to the Waldorf School outbreak. Last year, 59 cases of pertussis were confirmed in the Calgary Zone, and 33 cases were confirmed in the zone in 2014.

Whooping cough starts as a cold with runny nose, sneezing, fever of up to 39.4 C, and mild cough. The cough becomes more severe with repetitive coughing spells followed by a whooping sound when the child breathes in, and some vomiting. Older children and adults may experience milder symptoms, such as a prolonged cough and no whoop. Pertussis can be treated most successfully if caught early; however, immunization can safely prevent disease and, even if it does occur, reduce symptoms and spread of the disease.

In Alberta, pertussis immunizations are offered – free of charge – through Alberta’s routine childhood immunization program. A series of doses is recommended, starting at two months of age, and again at four, six and 18 months; at four to six years; and again in Grade 9. All individuals 18 years of age and older who have not received a dose of pertussis vaccine since turning 18 years of age are also eligible for one dose of pertussis vaccine. Following this schedule ensures immunization protection is up-to-date.

Additional information about pertussis is available through immunizealberta.ca.

Please contact your local community health centre to make an appointment. Individuals uncertain of their child’s immunization history can contact their local community health centre to discuss.
People who suspect they, or a family member, may be sick with pertussis should stay at home and call a family physician or Health Link at 811 before seeking medical care. Individuals with a confirmed case of pertussis should stay home from work, school or childcare until five days of antibiotics have been completed.

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. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

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