Parents who have not vaccinated their children against pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, are strongly encouraged to do so by Public Health Sudbury & Districts.
Nurse, Karly McGibbon says vaccination is the key to protecting individuals and reducing the spread of the infectious disease.
It is bacterial in nature and to date, there have been 12 confirmed cases this year.
The last local peak was when 27 cases were reported in 2015.
“Community members are asked to protect against infection by ensuring they are up-to-date with their pertussis vaccination,” said McGibbon.
In Ontario, the pertussis vaccine is offered free of charge to infants, children, and adolescents as part of the routine vaccination program (Ministry of Health & Long Term Care) and is required for school attendance. One free lifetime dose is offered to adults over the age of 18. The pertussis vaccine is also recommended for priority groups of adults such as health care workers and pregnant women (in each pregnancy).
Pertussis is a very contagious bacterial infection of the lungs and the throat. It is spread from person to person through coughing, especially in the first two weeks of infection. Children less than seven years of age who do not have immunity through vaccination are particularly vulnerable. Babies under one year of age and pregnant women in their third trimester are at greater risk of severe illness.
Fully vaccinated children or adults can still get the infection due to decreased immunity over time, but if they do get infected they generally, experience less severe illness with fewer complications. Having a pertussis infection in the past does not provide protection from future infections.
Public Health Sudbury & Districts reminds everyone of the importance of vaccination to protect yourself, your family, and the community against pertussis and other vaccine-preventable diseases. If you are unsure of your vaccination status or that of your children, please discuss this with your health care provider or visit Immunization Connect. The pertussis vaccine is available in the community through a primary health care provider or walk-in clinic.
For more information about pertussis and vaccination, visit phsd.ca or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200) ext. 301.