Montreal public health warns of whooping cough in schools

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Montreal public health authorities are warning parents about an increase in whooping cough cases in schools.

In a note sent to parents this week, Montreal public health director Mylène Drouin said cases have been confirmed in elementary schools and high schools.

“This highly contagious infection could still be around for several weeks or months,” Drouin wrote, noting that babies under a year old are especially at risk.

Whooping cough lasts six to 10 weeks and progresses in stages, the note says. Symptoms include a runny nose and cough early on but progress to a severe cough that can lead to vomiting, nausea and difficulty breathing.

Vaccination is the best way to protect against whooping cough, Drouin wrote.

“The vaccine reduces the severity of symptoms and complications,” the note says. “This is why we strongly recommend that people who are not protected get vaccinated as soon as possible.”

The vaccine is free and can be booked through the Clic-Santé portal.

According to the Quebec health department, whooping cough cases usually peak every four years. The last major outbreak in the province was in 2019, when 1,259 cases were confirmed.

Anyone whose child is experiencing coughing symptoms is asked to contact 811 or consult a health professional.

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