Local health units are trying to control an outbreak of Whooping Cough in Bruce and Huron Counties.
There are 39 cases in southern Bruce County, mainly in an under-immunized population. Huron County Health unit is also reporting a signigicant number of cases in the north part of the county.
The serious bacterial infection of the respiratory system is easily spread through coughing and sneezing. It starts with an irritating cough, which becomes more severe, and is often following by vomiting. It can last longer that two months. A characteristic crowing or high pitched whoop may occur during the cough.
Pregnant women and infants not fully immunized are at risk. Up to date immunizations can prevent infection.
Complications may include pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, chronic lung damage and occasionally deaths in infants.
Pertussis is preventable through immunization. It is one of the first set of immunizations recommended for all babies. It is also included in the Ontario Immunization Of School Pupils Act. It is highly recommended that immunizations of all family members, including grandparents, be up-to-date for pertussis before arrival of a new baby into a family.
Parents are asked to check their child’s immunization status to ensure it is current. Routine childhood immunizations include the pertussis vaccine. Adults can receive one dose of pertussis containing vaccine along with tetanus and diphtheria.
Local hospital emergency departments, family physicians and nurse practitioners have been notified of this outbreak. The Grey Bruce Health Unit is continuing to hold assessment and immunization clinics to immunize families in the outbreak area and to ensure the follow-up of cases.