The increase in cases of whooping cough, which first appeared in Estrie and Chaudière-Appalaches, continues to gain ground across the province. The authorities therefore invite the population to take the necessary precautions.
Children under six months of age are most at risk of complications. They may experience apnea, slow heart rate, which can gradually lead them to intensive care and even death.
Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease, mainly transmitted by droplets projected into the air. Infected people are contagious for five days after receiving antibiotic treatment, but this period of contagiousness can last up to three weeks in the absence of medication.
For epidemiologist Caroline Quach-Thanh, this increase in cases of whooping cough in Quebec is “not unexpected” because it is a so-called “cyclical” disease. Infection peaks normally occur every four years, the last recorded was in 2019.
According to Dr. Quach-Thanh, the figures that Quebec is currently experiencing generally resemble what has been seen in the past. However, young people aged 10 to 19 are more affected, unlike in previous years when those under six months old were most affected.
She therefore calls for the need to vaccinate younger children and pregnant women.
A runny nose and a persistent cough are symptoms commonly associated with the disease. Coughing fits can last from several weeks to a month.
Dr. Quach-Thanh therefore invites anyone who presents symptoms to get tested and wear a mask to limit transmission. Symptomatic people are also asked not to be around very young children.
The majority of people born in Quebec have been vaccinated through a program protecting against whooping cough available since 1946 and are therefore not targeted by a new administration of the vaccine.