Pertussis outbreak declared over in Arctic Bay and Pond Inlet

Press Release

November 6, 2025

The Department of Health is advising that the pertussis (whooping cough) outbreaks declared in Arctic Bay on July 25, 2025, and in Pond Inlet on June 20, 2025, have ended.

Since July 2025 to present, no hospitalizations or deaths were reported for any confirmed cases in either community.

Residents should be aware of symptoms as early diagnosis and treatment are important. Call your health centre if anyone in your household has any of the following symptoms:

• A cough that lasts longer than a week.
• A cough followed by an unusual sound like “whoop”.
• Trouble breathing.
• Vomiting after coughing.
• Coughing that is worse at night.
• A high fever (39°C and above) that lasts more than three days.

You can prevent spreading whooping cough by getting vaccinated. Check and keep your vaccines up to date.

You can help prevent the spread by:

• Washing hands frequently.
• Coughing into your sleeve or tissue.
• Not sharing food, drinks, utensils or toothbrushes.

Learn more about whooping cough by reading the pertussis factsheet available on the Department of Health webpage.

Contact

Charmaine Deogracias
Manager, Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5712
cdeogracias@gov.nu.ca

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