Dr. Vivien Suttorp Appointed as Alberta's Chief Medical Officer Amid Rising Respiratory Illnesses

Dr. Vivien Suttorp has been officially appointed as Alberta's new Chief Medical Officer of Health, effective December 18, 2025.

 

With over 25 years of experience in public health, preventive, and community medicine, Dr. Suttorp has dedicated the past 17 years to serving as the lead medical officer of health for Alberta's South Zone.

 

Her extensive background spans both urban and rural healthcare settings, positioning her as a seasoned leader in the field.

 

In her new role, Dr. Suttorp will be responsible for monitoring the health of Albertans, providing leadership on emerging health threats, overseeing disease prevention programs, and advising on public health policy development and implementation.

 

Her appointment comes at a critical time, as Alberta faces a significant surge in respiratory illnesses.

 

Recent data indicates a sharp increase in influenza cases, with over 2,300 new cases reported in the week of December 7 to 13, bringing the seasonal total to nearly 6,000.

 

Hospitalizations have also risen, with 360 individuals admitted, including 30 in intensive care units.

 

Tragically, nine influenza-related deaths were reported during this period, underscoring the severity of the current health crisis.

 

Dr. Suttorp's leadership is expected to be instrumental in navigating these challenges.

 

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange expressed confidence in Dr. Suttorp's ability to strengthen Alberta's public health system during this critical time.

 

Dr. Suttorp herself emphasized the importance of collective effort in public health, stating, "One of my mottos is that everybody owns public health. Together, we can improve the health of all Albertans."

 

As the province grapples with the peak of the respiratory virus season, Dr. Suttorp's appointment is seen as a timely and necessary step toward enhancing Alberta's public health response and ensuring the well-being of its residents.