CIUSSS News

How to Protect Yourself from Whooping Cough

Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection that peaks every 2 to 5 years. Cases of whooping cough are currently on the rise. Between January 1 and September 28, 2024, a total of 1 277 cases of whooping cough were reported in Montréal, compared with 19 cases for all of 2023.

Who can get the vaccine?

Whooping cough can affect anyone, not just children. Babies under 3 months of age are particularly at risk of serious complications from whooping cough.

A vaccine administered during pregnancy helps protect newborns during the vulnerable first months of life until they reach the recommended age for their first whooping cough vaccine (2 months).

To provide your little one with the best possible protection, it’s important to follow the routine vaccination schedule.

What are the symptoms of whooping cough?

At first, whooping cough symptoms are similar to those of a common cold or flu.

After a few days: severe coughing that ends in a “whoop” sound.

How can I make an appointment to get the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine?

Online through clicsante.ca.

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