Pertussis (whooping cough) cluster in Nelson — Interior Health
By The Nelson Daily Staff
Interior Health said in a media release Monday that it has identified a cluster of pertussis (whooping cough) in the community of Nelson.
Interior Health said that pertussis is a contagious bacterial disease of the lungs and throat that is easily spread through coughing or sneezing by an infected person.
“The infection can spread to others during the early stages when symptoms are not severe, and if left untreated, can spread up to three weeks after the cough starts,” the Interior Health media release said.
“It starts like a common cold, low-grade fever and a mild cough. Severe coughing spells that often end with a whoop can develop in one to two weeks.”
Interior Health said that pregnant women in their third trimester and infants under one year of age are at greatest risk.
“Pertussis is especially serious for infants and may lead to hospitalization and even death,” Interior Health said.
An immunization program is in place in Nelson and other communities to protect children and prevent additional cases. Immunizations are available for free at local Health Clinics, where Public Health Nurses are available to answer questions.
Nelson immunizations are available at:
- Nelson Health Centre, 333 Victoria Street
- Call 250-505-7200
