Chief Public Health Office declares whooping cough outbreak

The Chief Public Health Office has declared a whooping cough outbreak on PEI. Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison says that since July there have been 11 cases of whooping cough diagnosed on the Island.  With that in mind, Islanders are strongly advised to keep current on all vaccinations, particularly parents and caregivers, who should ensure their children are up to date on their vaccines schedule.  Whooping cough starts with cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe coughing spells lasting weeks. Infants under one year and pregnant women are at the highest risk.