Northern Health is reminding residents in northern B.C. to take the necessary steps to protect themselves from whooping cough after seven cases were found in the region recently.
Six laboratory-confirmed cases of the highly contagious bacterial disease were discovered in the northwest and one in the northern interior of Northern Health’s region. There are also a growing number of people in these areas who have had close contact with the sick people, increasing their risk of infection if they haven’t been immunized, according to a press release from Northern Health.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a respiratory condition that starts with a common cold and progresses into a cough. It can become severe and can also include a fever and vomiting.
Northern Health spokesperson, Jonathon Dyck said the best way to protect yourself is to get immunized.
“The Pertussis vaccine is part of the normal childhood vaccinations that are given at two months, four months, six months and 18 months old, and then again before Kindergarten. There is another vaccine given to teens in grade nine in British Columbia.” He said, adding that adults who have been vaccinated as a child should still look into getting a booster shot to help stop the spread.”
People can contact their local health unit or doctor to discuss their need for a vaccine. Those who have had contact with someone that has whooping cough are encouraged to call their health-care provider or HealthLink B.C. at 8-1-1.