Confirmed case of whooping cough on Canadian North flight 4119
The Department of Health is advising Nunavummiut of a confirmed whooping cough (pertussis) case on Canadian North flight 4119 from Iqaluit to Rankin Inlet on March 9, 2024. Nunavut’s Chief Public Health Officer is advising anyone who travelled from Iqaluit to Rankin Inlet on this flight, but especially those seated in rows 1-4, to monitor for symptoms.
Call your health centre immediately if you were on the flight and develop a mild cough, are sneezing, or have a runny nose. Other symptoms are as follows:
- A cough that lasts longer than a week.
- 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.
You can prevent whooping cough by getting vaccinated. People should check that their vaccines are up to date. Precautions include:
- Frequent handwashing.
- Coughing into your sleeve or tissue.
- Not sharing food, drinks, utensils or toothbrushes.
Learn more about whooping cough by reading the pertussis factsheet available on the Department of Health website.