The Government of Yukon and the Chief Medical Officer of Health is encouraging all Yukoners to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations to protect themselves and their families from pertussis (whooping cough) as the territory experiences a rise in cases. Over the past two months, seven cases have been reported so far in 2024. While most cases have been linked to travel, some have not been connected to a known source, indicating the possibility of community transmission. Nationally, rates of pertussis are also increasing and the Yukon is not immune to this trend.
Pertussis is a contagious respiratory infection that can cause severe illness, particularly in infants. To safeguard against this preventable illness the Government of Yukon is encouraging all Yukoners to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations.
Along with vaccination, practising good hygiene such as regular handwashing and avoiding sharing food or drinks can help prevent the spread of pertussis.
Yukoners are encouraged to check their immunization records and ensure that their children are fully vaccinated. If they or their child develops symptoms of pertussis, they should contact their health care provider immediately for diagnosis and early treatment, which can help prevent the illness from spreading to others. If a child is not up to date on their vaccination schedule or if someone is pregnant, they should speak with their local health centre, health care provider or the Whitehorse vaccine clinic to discuss their options.
Whooping cough can have serious and sometimes life-threatening complications, especially for infants. We strongly encourage Yukoners to stay up to date with their vaccinations and take steps to protect themselves and their communities from pertussis.
We’re seeing pertussis cases on the rise not only in Yukon but across the country. Vaccination is your best defence and I urge all Yukoners to ensure their immunizations are up to date, particularly for children and pregnant individuals.
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Pertussis is caused by the bacterium, Bordetella pertussis, that spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
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Early symptoms mimic a cold, but the cough can intensify over time, sometimes resulting in gagging or vomiting. This severe cough can last for up to two months or longer.
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Complications from pertussis can include pneumonia, seizures and brain damage. Infants, especially those younger than two months and children who are unimmunized, are especially vulnerable to severe outcomes.
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Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent severe illness from pertussis.
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Pregnant people are advised to speak with their health care provider about pertussis immunization to protect their newborns.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca
Ayodeji Awobamise
Health and Social Services
867-334-8342
ayodeji.awobamise@yukon.ca