NL Health Services Reports Pertussis Outbreak in Eastern Zones

Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services is advising the public of an outbreak of pertussis (whooping cough) in the eastern zones of the province.

Since February, there have been 42 cases of whooping cough reported throughout the Eastern Urban and Rural zones of NL Health Services.

Currently, most cases are being seen in school-aged children, however, the age range is two months to 89 years.

Antibiotics can prevent the spread of whooping cough and are recommended for individuals diagnosed with the infection and close contacts who are considered high risk. These include babies less than one year of age and pregnant women in their third trimester.

The vaccines that protect against whooping cough are part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s recommended routine childhood immunization schedule and school immunization schedules. A booster dose of the vaccine (Tdap) is also recommended for adults, and for pregnant women during each pregnancy.