The sign outside the Yukon Health and Social Services office on Lambert St. Photo Courtesy of Macklen Linke/CKRW.
Whitehorse, YT – Over the past two months seven cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, have been reported in Yukon with some not linked to travel indicating possible community transmission.
Yukon Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Sudit Ranade is now urging all Yukoners to be up-to-date with their vaccinations against the highly contagious respiratory infection.
The Yukon Government is urging parents to make sure their children are fully vaccinated as pertussis can pose a particular danger to infants.
“We’re seeing pertussis cases on the rise not only in Yukon but across the country,” said Dr. Ranade in a statement. “Vaccination is your best defense and I urge all Yukoners to ensure their immunizations are up-to-date, particularly for children and pregnant individuals.”
Pertussis initially presents symptoms similar to a cold but can progress into a severe cough that can last for months and may cause gagging or vomiting. Infants under two months old and unimmunized children are vulnerable to severe complications including pneumonia, seizures and brain damage.
Along with vaccination, Dr. Ranade says good hygiene practices like regular handwashing and avoiding the sharing of food and drinks are also important in preventing the spread of pertussis.
