Whooping cough continues to spread through Nunavut’s Baffin region

Nunavut health officials now count 70 cases of whooping cough. The respiratory infection can be spread to anyone, but the most severe cases are seen in children under the age of one. (IMAGE COURTESY OF WEBMD)

The number of cases of whooping cough continues to rise in Nunavut, with 70 probable or confirmed cases of the respiratory infection recorded in the territory’s Baffin region.

And with the rise, Government of Nunavut health officials continue to encourage Nunavummiut to get vaccinated against the infection, the GN said in a July 29 release.

The first case of whooping cough appeared in Pond Inlet in May, gradually spreading to the communities of Hall Beach and Iqaluit.

Earlier this month, GN health officials reported that the outbreak had ballooned to 29 cases in Iqaluit and 22 cases in Hall Beach.

But officials haven’t said in which of the three communities the new 19 cases of whooping cough were found.

Although infants are routinely vaccinated against whooping cough, health officials have encouraged families to ensure any children under the age of two are immunized against the infection.

The health department says pregnant women in their third trimester should also get vaccinated, along with members of their household.

Symptoms of whooping cough include a persistent cough followed by a “whoop” or gasping sound, and vomiting or trouble breathing after coughing.

To avoid the spread of the infection, health officials say Nunavummiut should wash their hands frequently; cough into a sleeve or tissue and avoid sharing food, drinks or utensils. Smokers should also avoid smoking indoors.

Vaccinations against whooping cough are available for children and adults by appointment at any health centre in Nunavut.