Health officials have officially announced a tuberculosis outbreak in Edmonton’s inner city. This declaration follows laboratory testing that confirmed two residents of the area share the same strain of the disease. The announcement by Primary Care Alberta (PCA) was made public on Thursday.
Tuberculosis Outbreak Details
The decision to declare the outbreak was finalized last month after lab results indicating recent local transmission were received. Tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs but can impact other areas of the body. It is an infectious disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or spitting from an infected person.
Current Statistics
- 12 tuberculosis cases linked to central Edmonton have been identified in 2023.
- Among these, three individuals have the same strain and are considered part of the outbreak.
PCA, a newly formed provincial agency responsible for primary healthcare services, reported that the outbreak is specifically associated with individuals experiencing homelessness. Living in communal settings, such as shelters, heightens the risk of infection.
Public Health Response
At this time, the outbreak does not pose a significant risk to the general public, according to PCA. Ongoing contact tracing efforts are in place, and individuals who may have been exposed will be contacted directly by health officials.
PCA, along with medical officers from Alberta’s Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services, is actively collaborating with inner-city organizations. These meetings aim to share vital information, provide support, and screen individuals identified as close contacts.
Health experts encourage communities to remain informed and vigilant as officials work to control the spread of this infectious disease.
