Whooping cough outbreak in Igloolik declared over

A whooping cough outbreak that was declared in Igloolik late last year is over.

Nunavut’s Department of Health released the update Wednesday in a public health advisory.

The outbreak was declared on Dec. 16, 2024. A total of seven cases were reported between November and the end of the outbreak. There were no fatal cases and nobody was hospitalized, the release said.

All of those diagnosed with the disease were children under the age of 15.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial disease that is preventable through vaccination.

Symptoms include a cough that lasts longer than a week, a cough followed by an unusual “whooping” sound, trouble breathing, vomiting after coughing, coughing that is worse at night, or a fever above 39 C that lasts longer than three days.

“Residents should be aware of symptoms as early diagnosis and treatment are important,” the advisory said.

“Call your health centre if anyone in your household has any of these symptoms.”

The advisory included a reminder for people to make sure their vaccines are up to date. To help prevent the spread of disease, people should wash their hands frequently, cough into sleeves or tissues, and avoid sharing food, drinks, utensils and toothbrushes, it said.