Increase in Pertussis Cases in Interior Health | MHO Alert
- Apr 17
- 1 min read
An MHO alert regarding increased pertussis (whooping cough) activity across Interior Health was shared earlier this week. Activity has remained elevated since 2024, with higher-than-average case rates and cyclical peaks expected every 2–5 years.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. While vaccination remains the most effective prevention for severe disease, immunity from vaccination or prior infection wanes over time, and a previously immunized person can still become sick, though the illness is milder.
Key Clinical Guidance
Clinical recognition
Consider pertussis in patients with paroxysmal cough, inspiratory whoop, post-tussive vomiting, or prolonged unexplained cough, including those with recent exposure (incubation 5–21 days).
Testing
Use nasopharyngeal swab for PCR and culture (BCCDC testing). See instructions for the appropriate swab and collection or nasopharyngeal specimens here.
Reporting
Report suspect, probable, and confirmed cases to Public Health at 1-866-778-7736.
Treatment and chemoprophylaxis
Treat cases promptly; antibiotics reduce infectious period and may reduce severity if given early. Provide chemoprophylaxis for high-risk contacts as per Public Health guidance.
High-risk contacts include:
Infants under 1 year
Women in 3rd trimester pregnancy
Household or close contacts where an infant or 3rd trimester pregnancy is present
Immunization
Encourage patients to remain up to date with routine pertussis vaccination schedules.