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: 8°C | Low: 1°C

    • Deer Lake

      Sunny intervals

      High: 10°C | Low: 3°C

    • Stephenville

      Mist

      High: 8°C | Low: 4°C

    Recently Played

    Podcasts

    • NL Summer Games 2026

      NL Summer Games update

      We are getting closer to the opening of the NL Summer Games in Corner Brook

    • The Plain Truth

      The Plain Truth, Wednesday May 21, 2026

      May 10-16 was National Nurses Week and this week's guest are from the Western Regional School of Nursing

    • BayFM On-Demand

      Humber Arm South

      The Humber Arm South Recreation Committee are floating around the idea of building a permanent ice rink.