â–º Listen Live

AHS announces high cases of syphilis in the province

Syphilis rates in Northern Alberta are going up at an alarming rate, says Alberta Health Services. The group held a press conference yesterday after declaring a provincial outbreak of the sexually transmitted infection. The AHS North Zone, which includes the Lakeland, led the way in new cases in 2018, with an almost 325% increase from the year before.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw says the stigma around STI testing needs to end.

“We need to emphasize for all Albertans: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a risk to anyone who is sexually active, particularly people who have new sex partners and are not using protection. I encourage anyone who is sexually active to get tested regularly. Anyone in Alberta can access STI testing and treatment for free.”

A provincial outbreak coordination committee consisting of health officials and others has been activated. The committee will develop a strategy to try and increase STI testing, promote public awareness and reduce the overall number of syphilis cases in the province.

The last time Alberta saw syphilis rates this high was 1948. A total of 1,536 cases of the disease were reported in 2018.

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall
News / Afternoon Host
- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Man facing charges after stolen truck recovered near Kehewin

A stolen truck was reported missing and was recovered on July 3 south of Bonnyville after RCMP were called to the location along Highway 41. 38-year-old driver Peter Trottier of Frog Lake, was arrested and charged.

Cold Lake approved supportive living facility for minors needing 24 hour care

Cold Lake city council approved to change the former Stepping Stones Crisis Centre at 5201 50th St, into a supportive living accommodations for minors with medical needs. 

Bonnyville RCMP investigate calf theft and butchering in Lessard area

Bonnyville RCMP are investing a case of livestock theft after a calf was stolen, butchered, and discarded on July 3 in the Lessard area north of Bonnyville. 

Cold Lake RCMP urge residents to shelter in place after gunshot report

Cold Lake RCMP are asking residents near 8 Street and 10 Avenue to shelter in place as officers respond to a report of a gunshot in the area. 

RCMP officer’s child exploitation case moves to King’s Bench

The case of St. Paul RCMP officer Evan Peacock, who is facing multiple child exploitation charges, has been raised to the Court of King's Bench, with his next appearance set for July 7 in St. Paul. 
- Advertisement -