Timmins, Ontario — Wednesday, November 13, 2024
The Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) is advising the public that there has been an increase in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, reported in the PHU area. Other regions across Ontario are also experiencing increases.
“You can protect yourself and your children with the pertussis vaccine which is both safe and effective,” says Lynn Leggett, Manager of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Services at the PHU. “For the best and continuing protection, multiple doses are recommended throughout your lifetime.” She adds that this includes pregnant individuals: “To protect newborn babies from getting pertussis, pregnant individuals should get a vaccination during each pregnancy, regardless of any previous doses received.”
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a lung infection that can spread very easily. Some people can get very sick if they get pertussis, especially infants and older adults. Babies who are too young to be immunized, or babies who are not up to date with their vaccinations can get very sick and may need to be hospitalized.
Pertussis symptoms start like a common cold. You may have sneezing, runny nose, and a mild fever and cough. After one or two weeks the cough becomes worse, with coughing fits that can last for a few minutes. It can be hard to catch your breath, and coughing fits can also make you vomit. If you have symptoms of whooping cough or were exposed to someone who has the infection, call your health care provider. It is important to tell your health care provider about your illness and get guidance to help prevent the spread to others.
“If you are not up to date with your pertussis vaccination, you are more likely to get pertussis,” advises Leggett. “Parents, caregivers and pregnant individuals can check to see if their vaccines are up to date online at phu.fyi/yellow-card. In addition to getting vaccinated, you can protect yourself and others by regularly washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve, and staying home if you’re sick, just like with other respiratory infections.”
The pertussis vaccine is given at:
The Porcupine Health Unit recommends that everyone check that they are current with their pertussis and other vaccines. If you are not up to date, book an appointment with your health care provider or contact the Porcupine Health Unit at 705-267-1181 to book an appointment.