Whooping cough outbreak growing with 7 new cases
CBC News | Posted: October 22, 2015 3:39 PM | Last Updated: October 22, 2015
Public Health recommending people check their vaccination records
The number of cases of whooping cough is on the rise.
A news conference this morning, Dr. Yves Léger, the district medical officer of health for the Moncton region, said there are now 36 confirmed cases, up from 29. Most are in the Moncton area.
Adolescents make up the largest group of those afflicted, in addition to a few adults. No infants have been affected.
Léger said most of those affected were up to date on their vaccine status. There have been no hospitalizations.
He said Public Health is continuing to increase vaccination efforts, with a focus on pregnant women, and those in close contact with infants.
Vaccinations are also continuing at schools.
"The vaccine isn't perfect, but one of the best measures we have," said Léger.
Public Health is asking people to check their vaccination records. There is a booster program underway for Grade 7 students, which should be completed in early November.
Whooping cough symptoms include excessive coughing, difficulty breathing and vomiting.
Whooping cough outbreaks are common every three to five years. The last outbreak in New Brunswick was in 2012 when 1,400 cases were reported.