Southwestern Public Health is warning of a significant increase in the number of pertussis cases in the region.
Also known as whooping cough, 82 cases have been confirmed since Jan. 1 of 2022.
That is 40 per cent of the provincial case count over the same time period.
Dr. Ninh Tran, the region’s medical officer of health, is expressing concern over the number of young children who are unvaccinated or under vaccinated. So, this is really a call to action.
He notes untreated pertussis in infants can lead to hospitalization, brain damage and death.
That is why the need to have both children and adults up to date with their vaccinations.
The health unit has openings this month in clinics for vaccination appointments. You can book online at http://www.swpublichealth.ca/booking
For more information on pertussis, visit the health unit’s website.
Written by Ian McCallum
