As the number mumps cases continues to rise, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is responding by expanding the scope of the outbreak to include the entire Edmonton zone.
According to an AHS news release, as of March 28, 51 cases of mumps have been confirmed in Alberta so far this year, 24 of which are in Edmonton Zone.
The outbreak had previously been declared specific to the University of Alberta. In February, the University confirmed four cases of mumps at its main campus.
AHS is recommending anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Edmonton, and was born in or after 1970, receive up to two free doses of the vaccine.
“To stop the further spread of illness, and protect ourselves and our loved ones, we encourage all Edmonton Zone residents to ensure that they are up to date with all of their immunizations,” said Dr. Joanna Oda, zone medical officer of health with AHS. “If you’re unsure of your immunization status, call Health Link at 811 or your local public health centre.”
Anyone born before 1970 is assumed to be immune to the mumps because of the disease’s prevalence during that time. Anyone who has already received at least two doses of the vaccine does not require any additional doses.
Jeez, guys, STOP PARTYING WITH JILL AND GET IMMUNIZED.
Alberta Health Services expands scope of mumps outbreak to include entire Edmonton zone
Kimchi and Justice 