25 Sep 2024 | 02:30 PM UTC
Canada: Elevated pertussis activity reported across Ontario, especially in Toronto, in September
Elevated pertussis activity reported across Ontario, especially in Toronto, Canada, in September. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across Ontario, with 1,016 cases (885 confirmed cases) reported from Jan. 1-Sept. 9. This is compared to 369 cases in 2023. Disease activity has been reported in 33 of Ontario's 34 public health units. Toronto Public Health (119 cases) reported the highest number of cases, followed by Ottawa Public Health (115 cases), Eastern Ontario Health Unit (93 cases), and York Region Public Health (83 cases). Health officials urge parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date. 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 Sept. 25.
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.
The first dose of diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) containing vaccine coverage in Canada is estimated at 94 percent in 2023, surpassing the WHO's recommended target of at least 90 percent coverage needed to help prevent wider community transmission. The pertussis vaccine is administered in four doses at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months, with boosters between 4-6 years and 14-16 years. Adults in Ontario are advised to receive a Tdap booster between 24 and 28 years old. Ontario health officials have reported roughly 462 cases in 2019, 110 cases in 2020, 16 cases in 2021, 162 cases in 2022, and 369 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.
