29 Aug 2024 | 07:10 AM UTC
Canada: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Quebec in August /update 3
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Quebec, Canada, in August. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Quebec with an additional 5,654 cases reported July 6-Aug. 27, bringing the total to 11,670 cases reported since Jan. 1. This is compared to the 106 cases reported in Quebec in 2023. Affected regions include Chaudiere-Appalaches, Estrie, Laurentians, and Montreal. Local health officials urge the public to vaccinate their children against pertussis to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Aug. 29.
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 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.
