Whooping Cough Resurgence Prompts Vaccination Reminder

With the resurgence of a vaccine-preventable disease in Canada, Island Health is encouraging everyone to ensure they’re up to date with their vaccinations, specifically for whooping cough, which is currently circulating in the region.

Whooping cough is an infection of the airways and symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, mild fever and possibly a mild cough in the beginning, resembling a cold.

But, sometimes referred to as “the 100-day cough,” it can last for weeks.

Serious complications are rare in adults, however small children and infants under one year old are at increased risk. In rare cases, it can lead to pneumonia, seizures, and even death.

Rates of whooping cough have increased across Canada in 2024, including within the Island Health region.

As of August, in the Island Health region, 17 people have been ill; the majority of them were not vaccinated.

Vaccines are available at local health units, and some doctors’ and nurse practitioners’ offices. Adults and children ages five and up can also get immunized at some pharmacies.

View the B.C. immunization schedule and find out where to get vaccinated.

Find your local health unit on the Health Unit Locations page.

To learn more, visit Island Health.