82 cases of the respiratory illness have been seen since January 1st, 40% of Ontario's total reported cases.
SWPH - Southwestern Public Health is urging the public to protect themselves and their family from pertussis.
Pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, was one of the most common diseases in children prior to its vaccine rollout in 1997.
In Oxford, Elgin and Middlesex 82 cases of the respiratory illness have been seen since January 1st, 40% of Ontario's total reported cases.
Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health for Southwestern Public Health says that children are at the greatest risk.
"Combine this with the number of children who are unvaccinated or under vaccinated and I am concerned in particular for the youngest members of our community."
Symptoms start with a runny nose or nasal congestion, sneezing, mild cough, and mild fever. The cough can last anywhere from 2-8 weeks, and will persistently get worse over time.
Untreated the respiratory illness can lead to hospitalization, brain damage, or death.
Tran says he asked local parents with children experiencing symptoms what parents should do to be vigilant.
"The first is that you make yourself familiar with the symptoms of pertussis and seek medical care if your child has these symptoms. It can be treated with antibiotics and after five days on the treatment the person can no longer spread the disease to others. Second, please contact your family health care provider or Southwestern Public Health to get your child’s routine vaccinations up to date. The vaccine is free, and we have openings in our clinics throughout the month of March"
Vaccine appointments can be booked via the online SWPH booking system.
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