Pertussis (whooping cough) on the rise in York Region

Similar to other health units across the province, York Region is reminding residents about the importance of vaccination as cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, are increasing.

From January 1 to July 4, 2024, there have been 27 reported cases of pertussis in York Region. This is a significant increase compared to eight cses reported in all of 2023.

Pertussis is highly contagious and vaccine preventable. It infects the lungs and airways and can easily spread person-to-person through coughing or sneezing. Early symptoms of pertussis are like a cold and can include a runny nose, sneezing and cough.

With time, coughing fits become more severe and can sound like a high-pitched “whoop” when someone gasps for air. Coughing fits can also cause vomiting, loss of breath and exhaustion.

Pertussis infections can be dangerous for children under age one and pregnant individuals.

York Region advises anyone experiencing symptoms of pertussis to avoid contact with higher-risk individuals and seek medical assessment through their primary health care professional or at a walk-in clinic. Pertussis is treated with antibiotics.

Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to stop the spread of pertussis. Ontario’s routine immunization schedule recommends people receive multiple vaccinations, including boosters, against pertussis throughout their lifetime to maintain immunity against the disease. Critical times include:

• Childhood: A total of four doses given at ages two, four, six and 18 months and one additional dose between ages four and six
• Teenagers: One booster dose between ages 14 and 16
• Adults: One booster dose in adulthood and once in every pregnancy, between 27 and 32 weeks to help reduce risk of disease in the newborn before they can be immunized

If you or a family member are not up-to-date on your immunizations, please speak to your health care professional. York Region Public Health is also offering eligible students, ages four to 17, routine immunizations. For more information, visit a York Region community immunization clinic and/or book an appointment.

For more information about pertussis symptoms, how it spreads and how it can be prevented, see the Pertussis (Whooping Cough) fact sheet and/or the Public Health Agency of Canada's Pertussis web page.