Pertussis, also called whooping cough, is a highly contagious infection that spreads through coughing and sneezing.

Cases have increased recently across Interior Health and are expected to increase during the summer months because travel, camps and gatherings can help the infection spread more easily.

Public health officials are asking everyone to stay informed and help prevent the spread.

The most effective way to protect your family and prevent further spread of pertussis is through immunization.

Infants under one year old are at the greatest risk of severe illness. Most babies who became sick in 2025 required hospitalization. Most cases occur in children and youth who are not fully immunized.

Getting immunized is the most effective way to prevent severe illness and protect babies and vulnerable people. Pertussis vaccines are free in British Columbia and are part of the routine childhood immunization schedule.

For expectant mothers, immunization during pregnancy is especially important because it helps protect newborn babies before they are old enough to receive their own vaccines.

Public health encourages everyone to make sure their immunizations are up to date.

What are the symptoms?

Pertussis often begins like a common cold with symptom such as sneezing, runny nose, mild fever and a mild cough.

After one to two weeks, the cough can become severe and last for several weeks. Some people develop coughing fits that make it hard to breathe and may cause post-cough vomiting.

The well-known “whooping” sound does not always happen, especially in babies, teens, adults and people who have been vaccinated.

Anyone with a cough that is getting worse or lasting more than a week should contact a health-care provider.

How does it spread?

Pertussis spreads through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and the droplets land on multi-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, counter tops, etc. It spreads easily in homes, schools, camps, and other places where people spend time together or in close contact.

People can spread pertussis before they know they are sick.

Who is most at risk?

Anyone can get pertussis, but the highest risk is for: Babies under one year old; People who are not fully immunized; Pregnant people in their third trimester; People living or working with vulnerable individuals.

Protection from vaccination or past infection can decrease over time, so older children and adults can still become infected.

What should you do if you have symptoms?

• Contact a health-care provider for advice and testing, or call 8-1-1;
• Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital;
• Stay home and avoid close contact with others, especially babies and pregnant people;
• Cover coughs;
• Wash hands often.

People with pertussis can spread the infection for several weeks if untreated. Antibiotics can reduce how long someone is contagious.

Listen to how whooping cough sounds on a child

Call to make an appointment at your local health centre: Services – Location listing page | Interior Health.

Pertussis (whooping cough) (HealthLinkBC): Pertussis (whooping cough) – HealthLinkBC File #15c – Printer-friendly version

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