International Health Management

An increased number of pertussis cases (also called whooping cough) have been reported this year in California and in the state of New York.
As of November 30, 2010, the California Department of Public Health has reported 7,297 confirmed, probable and suspect cases of pertussis for a state rate of 18.7 cases per 100,000 people. This is the highest rate in approximately 50 years.

Cases include 10 deaths, 9 of whom were infants under two months of age who had not received any doses of the pertussis vaccine.
Pertussis activity has also increased in the state of New York. As of December 7, 2010, Jefferson County Public Health Service has reported 463 cases of pertussis.

Pertussis cases occur around the world, including in Canada. Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that causes coughing spells which can last for four to six weeks. It is spread through droplets in the air from coughing or sneezing. This disease can affect people of any age however it is more serious among young infants.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) reminds travellers to make sure their pertussis vaccination is up-to-date.