Whooping cough is on the rise; ensure your vaccinations are up to date

    Friday, 12 April 2024 12:00

    By Tonya Organ

    Antibiotics can effectively treat it especially when administered early in the course of the illness.

    There’s been an increase of whooping cough and the  Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) is encouraging people to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations. It typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, mild fever and cough. As it progresses, individuals may experience episodes of severe, prolonged coughing, often accompanied by a distinctive "whooping" sound during inhalation. These coughing fits can persist for up to eight weeks. Antibiotics can effectively treat it especially when administered early in the course of the illness. However, vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention.

     

    To report an error, submit a news tip, or provide feedback, please e-mail news@bayfm.ca or call (709) 637-0183.

    More from Local News

     

     

     

    BayFM recognizes support from the following agencies:

                        

    Today's Weather

    • Corner Brook

      Sunny intervals

      High: 16°C | Low: 5°C

    • Deer Lake

      Sunny intervals

      High: 16°C | Low: 5°C

    • Stephenville

      Sunny intervals

      High: 11°C | Low: 7°C

    Recently Played

    Podcasts

    • The Plain Truth

      The Plain Truth, May 13, 2026

      Host Paula Sheppard's guest this week in Angela Brockway, Integrated Youth Services Coordinator for Beckett Western at Vine Place Community Centre

    • BayFM On-Demand

      Mi’kmaw singer songwriter Elizabeth Sheppard

      Sheppard will be dropping a new single Sunday May 17

    • Tuesdays with the Mayor

      Tuesdays with the Mayor, May 12, 2026

      Tuesdays with the Mayor, May 12, 2026