Outbreak of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Northern Alberta, Canada

Background: In January 2001 we investigated an outbreak of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in a northern region of Alberta, Canada, and here we report on the epidemiology of the outbreak. Goal: The goal was to examine the outbreak etiology and make recommendations for strengthening regional STD programs. Study Design: Provincial STD notification forms were reviewed to identify cases, and a case-control study was undertaken to identify risk factors for infection. Results: Gonorrhea was reported among 81 individuals, aged 15 to 60 years, between January 1999 and March 2001 in 8 neighboring communities. Attendance at a public bar in one community was associated with infection (P < 0.01). Cases were predominantly Aboriginal (96.3%) and aged less than 30 years (77.6%), and at least 39% of cases reported multiple sex partners. Casual partnering and extended sexual networks are believed to have influenced the spread of infection. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of site-specific health interventions to effectively target at-risk individuals at high-risk locations, with preventive measures aimed at members of high-risk sexual networks. Effective interventions must ensure the availability of and access to appropriate health services for all residents of northern regions in Alberta.