2024-02-04 14:23:46
An increase in cases of whooping cough was observed in primary and secondary schools in Sherbrooke and Memphrmagog: 52 cases were reported from December 3, 2023 to January 28, 2024.
The parents of the children at each of these schools have already been notified, and prevention measures have been put in place, according to information from the CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS.
Whooping cough and its symptoms
Whooping cough is a contagious disease characterized by severe coughing fits. It is caused by bacteria traveling in droplets projected into the air by an infected person when they cough or sneeze. The illness begins with a cold, then with persistent and uncontrollable bouts of coughing which may end with vomiting, pauses or difficulty breathing or loud whistling (cock crowing). It lasts approximately 1 to 10 weeks. This disease is therefore easily transmitted between members of a family or between children in the same school.
The CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS recommends staying home in case of fever, cough, sore throat or nasal congestion. The CIUSSS also recommends wearing a mask and feeling distanced from other people. It is important to avoid any contact with pregnant women who are in the 3rd trimester of their pregnancy as well as babies aged 1 year and younger. These people are at greater risk of complications. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to call a family doctor or Info-Sant at 811.
Prevent whooping cough and respiratory diseases
As to protect themselves from other infectious diseases, the CIUSSS de l’Estrie CHUS invites the population to continue good habits such as: washing their hands frequently; cough or sneeze into the elbow and keep the whooping cough vaccination up to date (especially important for pregnant women between 26 and 32 weeks and young children).
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