07 Aug 2024 | 07:39 AM UTC
Canada: Elevated pertussis activity reported across Ontario province in early August
Elevated pertussis activity reported across Ontario province, Canada, in early August. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across Ontario province, with more than 500 cases Jan. 1-July 24. This is compared to 208 cases over a similar period in 2023. Health officials advise parents to update their children's vaccinations before the start of the school year. In Ontario, the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) requires students to have up-to-date vaccinations to attend school, and those who do not comply may face suspension. This report represents the most complete data available as of August 6.
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 (DPT3) vaccination coverage in Canada is estimated at 92 percent in 2023, surpassing the WHO's recommended target of at least 90 percent needed to prevent wider community transmission. Ontario health officials have reported roughly 462 cases in 2019, 110 cases in 2020, 16 cases in 2021, 159 cases in 2022, and 333 cases in 2023.
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.
