On April 14, Southern Health-Santé Sud issued a public health advisory indicating that 28 cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, have been reported within the health region.

According to the advisory, pertussis is a highly infectious disease spread by airborne droplets released during coughing and sneezing. Those infected pose a greater risk of spreading the disease during the early stages of their illness.

For many, symptoms tend to resemble that of the common cold and may start out with a mild fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and a cough.

In some cases, symptoms can develop into coughing fits for anywhere from one to ten weeks. The coughing may also cause breathing difficulties, choking, and vomiting.

“Severity is greatest among infants one year and younger,” the advisory states. “They are at greatest risk of developing serious complications, including periods of stopping breathing (apnea), pneumonia, seizures, swelling of the brain (encephalopathy), and death. Pregnant women in their third trimester are also at higher risk for more severe disease.”

First symptoms of pertussis can show up as early as seven days following exposure and as late as 21 days afterward.

“Immunization is the best way to protect against and limit the spread of pertussis,” the advisory suggests. “All children should be up-to-date with their pertussis immunizations. The pertussis vaccine is also recommended for all pregnant women in every pregnancy, between 27 and 32 weeks of gestation, irrespective of immunization history.”

Information on the pertussis vaccination can be obtained from any healthcare provider, pharmacist or public health office.