Whooping cough vaccination clinic for pregnant women September 21

Whooping cough vaccination clinic for pregnant women September 21

Regional health authority CISSSO is organizing a whooping cough vaccination day for pregnant women in the Outaouais on Saturday September 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 75 boulevard de la Gappe in Gatineau.

Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is a highly contagious disease that can be particularly dangerous for young children an newborns. According to a press release from the CISSSO, there have been a total of 300 cases recorded in the Outaouais since the beginning of spring, and they have seen an increase in the number of cases among infants under a year old.

“Vaccination of pregnant women during each pregnancy remains the most effective intervention to prevent whooping cough in newborns, since childhood vaccination does not begin before 2 months of age and the schedule includes multiple doses for maximum protection,” the statement notes (translated). “It is recommended that pregnant women be vaccinated during each pregnancy to allow the transfer of antibodies (protection) to the baby before birth. The ideal time to get vaccinated is between the 26th and 32nd week of pregnancy (but possible up to 4 weeks before the due date).”

Appointments aren’t required, but can be made through the Clic santé website.