Mumps outbreaks declared over in Edmonton, South Zone
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EDMONTON — A pair of mumps outbreaks declared in the Edmonton and South Zones have officially been declared over by Alberta Health Services.
AHS reported the Edmonton outbreak began on Feb. 16, while the South Zone outbreak started on March 28. A total of 75 cases of mumps have been confirmed in Alberta in 2017, with 31 cases in Edmonton and 18 in the South Zone this year. All but one case in the two zones were linked to the outbreak, according to AHS.
Mumps is a viral infection which often causes swelling and pain of the glands in the jaw. Although many people recover from the virus without any long-term effects, the virus can cause severe complications that affect the brain, reproductive organs and can also cause deafness.
AHS says although the outbreaks have been declared over, the risk of the virus remains, and they urge all Albertans to be up-to-date on their immunizations. The vaccine is offered through Alberta’s Routine Childhood Immunization Program.
