Increased Local Cases of Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Region of Waterloo Public Health has received reports of eight confirmed cases (ages 2-32) of whooping cough (pertussis) since April of this year. Many of the cases were not up to date with their immunizations. In addition, there has been increased activity across Ontario with over 180 lab-confirmed cases.

What is whooping cough?

Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that can cause coughing spells with gagging or vomiting from coughing so hard. In some cases, there may be a loud “whoop” when breathing in after a coughing spell. Whooping cough is most severe in infants. Pregnant women in the last three months of their pregnancy are also high risk because they can pass the infection on to their newborn baby if they are coughing after the baby is born.

How can I prevent my children and family from getting whooping cough?

Adults such as parents and family members are a primary source of pertussis transmission to vulnerable infants. Immunization is the best way to prevent whooping cough. The vaccine is very safe and works well (85% effective). The vaccine is given as part of routine shots to babies starting at two months of age. A booster is given before starting school and then again for teenagers and adults (Adacel™). This vaccine is now also recommended (and publicly funded) for adults as a one-time booster.

Whooping Cough Vaccine Schedule:

• 2,4,6 and 18 months
• 4-6 years
• 14-16 years – booster
• Adults (18-64 years who didn`t get the 14-16 year booster) – one booster

For further information please visit the Region`s website at http://chd.region.waterloo.on.ca/en/healthyLivingHealthProtection/whoopingcough.asp.

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Media contact: Kristy Wright, Interim Manager, Infectious Disease Program, Region of Waterloo Public Health, 519-883-2006 ext. 5288, kwright@regionofwaterloo.ca