Case of whooping cough confirmed in Hall Beach, Nunavut

Nunavut's health department is issuinga public health advisory after confirming a case of whooping cough in the community of Hall Beach.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is abacterial infection mostcommonly spreadthrough coughing or sneezing. Anyone can get the illness, but it can be very serious for babies orthose with weakened immune systems.

In May, an outbreak of the infection was declared in the community of Pond Inlet after 13 cases were deemed either confirmed or probable.

In the advisory, the health department is asking parents of children under the age of three to visit the community's health centre if their child displays the following symptoms:

• a cough followed by an unusual sound that sounds like "whoop"
• vomiting after coughing
• a high fever

The advisory also suggests residents wash their hands regularly;cough into their sleeve or tissue;and not share food, drinks, utensils or toothbrushes in order to prevent infection. It also suggests not to smoke indoors, as cigarette smoke can worsen the cough.