24 May 2024 | 11:05 AM UTC
Canada: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Quebec, especially Estrie, in May
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Quebec, Canada in May. Estrie is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Quebec, with more than 900 cases reported Jan. 1-May 21. Estrie (469 cases) is the most affected, followed by Chaudiere-Appalaches (182 cases), Monteregie (50 cases), Capitale-Nationale (43 cases), Bas-Saint-Laurent (42 cases), Laurentians (41 cases), and Lanaudiere (20 cases). Local health officials urge the public to get their children vaccinated against pertussis to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 24.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against pertussis or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccination coverage in Canada is estimated at 92 percent in 2022, which is within the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported 208 pertussis cases nationwide in Canada in 2022, 32 cases in 2021, 955 cases in 2020, and 2,544 cases in 2019.
Pertussis - also known as "whooping cough" - is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Symptoms typically appear 5-10 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms range from mild illness with low-grade fever and occasional coughing in the early stage, to vomiting, exhaustion, and severe fits of rapid coughing in the later stage. Infants and children up to 4 years old are at highest risk and typically suffer the most severe symptoms.
