London, ON – The Middlesex-London Health Unit has recently noted an increase in the number of pertussis cases, including several confirmed cases at a local school, prompting the declaration of an outbreak there. Of the cases at the school, several were not vaccinated against the disease or were partially immunized. Because pertussis is often underreported, and is known to be present in many communities across the province, the Health Unit would like to remind residents about the ways they can protect themselves against this disease.

Also known as whooping cough, pertussis is a very contagious bacterial disease that can cause prolonged coughing. Pertussis commonly begins with symptoms that are similar to the common cold. These symptoms then progress to prolonged coughing spells that can last for weeks to months. The coughing fits can include a high-pitched “whooping” sound which occurs when an infected child or infant inhales after coughing. Coughing spells may also be followed by vomiting. Infants rarely have coughing spells, instead, they are more likely to cry, gasp for air and stop breathing. Although rare, pertussis can be fatal in infants.

“Because pertussis can spread easily, it’s important to be vaccinated. The whooping cough vaccine is included in routine vaccinations for children and adolescents and is also recommended for adults,” says Gayane Hovhannisyan, Associate Medical Officer of Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “It’s also a good reminder for adults who will be around infants this holiday season, as these are the children who are at highest risk for complications from pertussis”.

People with a cough that lasts longer than expected or ends in a whoop or vomiting are advised to see their healthcare provider. Pertussis can be treated with antibiotics which may help improve symptoms if given early in the course of the illness, and may also decrease the spread of the infection.

Immunization is the best way to prevent pertussis. Four doses of pertussis-containing vaccine are required between the ages of 2-18 months, and another between the ages of four and six years. A booster dose is required for students, if it has been more than 10 years since their last shot. Adults should also receive a booster of a pertussis-containing vaccine. The pertussis vaccine is safe for pregnant women and recommended for those who have not been vaccinated previously. The vaccine is available from healthcare providers and the Health Unit’s Immunization Clinics in London and Strathroy. The hours of the Health Unit’s immunization clinic can be found at: http://www.healthunit.com/immunization-clinic.

Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-663-5317 ext. 2469, or 519-617-0570 (cell.)

Spokesperson:
Gayane Hovhannisyan, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit