4 cases of whooping cough confirmed in Pond Inlet

Nunavut's Department of Health is warningpeople across the territoryespecially parents of babies and young children about four confirmed cases of whooping cough in Pond Inlet.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a respiratory disease that can spread very easily from person to person.The most severe cases are in children under the age of one.

Anyone who is mildly ill should stay at home and avoid contact with others until symptoms are gone, the department says. Those withsigns of the illness should consult a health care provider.

Symptoms of whooping cough include:

• A cough followed by an unusual sound that sounds like "whoop"
• Trouble breathing
• Vomiting after coughing
• Coughing that is worse at night
• A high fever (39 C and above) that lasts more than three days

Whooping cough can be prevented by getting vaccinated. The Department of Health encouragespeople across the territory to make sure their vaccinations are up to date.

Precautions include:

• Frequent handwashing
• Coughing into your sleeve or tissue
• Not sharing food, drinks, utensils or toothbrushes