GNU: Pertussis outbreak in Nunavut is over

November 22, 2017

The Department of Health is declaring that the pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak in Nunavut is over. This was the second outbreak in the territory in the past year. Whooping cough is a disease of the throat and lungs that spreads very easily from person to person.

Anyone can get whooping cough (pertussis), but the most severe cases are in children under the age of one. If your child has a cough that is followed by a “whoop” sound, or has a high fever, or vomits after coughing, see your health care provider immediately.

The Department of Health continues to stress the importance of routine immunizations, including protecting against pertussis. Nunavummiut can check their immunization status at their local health center. Immunizations are free.

You can take precautions to help stop the spread of germs and infections by:

• frequently washing your hands,
• coughing into your sleeve or tissue, and
• not sharing food, drinks, utensils or toothbrushes.

For more information about Nunavut’s immunization program, please go to the Health’s website:  http://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/immunization-programs or contact your local health center or public health.

Media Contact:
Ron Wassink
Communications Specialist Department of Health
867-975-5710
[email protected]

NT4