Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Outbreak UPDATE

> Jan 20, 2012

> UPDATE

> Mass immunizations will be conducted in Sts'ailes beginning on Tuesday, Jan 24th with staff of Sts'ailes Early Education Centre, School, Health and general Band staff, and pregnant women.

> Vaccination will be available for all adults who have close contact with children. An early "booster" shot will be offered to children who are 5 years since last Pertussis vaccination(children who are now in grade 5.

> Clinic times will be posted on Monday.
> Marg Hamilton
> Health Program Manager.

Sts'ailes Admin. Office OPEN

The Sts'ailes Administration Office will be open today. For the off reserve employee's, you may use you discretion weather you feel you can travel to work or not. Please just contact your manager if you feel you can't.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Outbreak

> There are now 80 confirmed cases of Whooping Cough(Pertussis) in the Hope area. Agassiz and Chilliwack has one confirmed case. This is a serious communicable illness(able to be passed on to others) it is especially serious for children under one year of age, in pregnancy(especially 3rd trimester) and for adults who must have contact with young children

> What you can Do
> - see your Dr if you have flu like symptoms especially with a harsh cough when breathing in
> - Stay at home prevent passing on to others
> - cough or sneeze in your sleeve
> - excellent (and frequent) hand washing

> The treatment for confirmed or suspect cases is antibiotics

> What's Next???
> In response to the breakout, Sts'ailes Health will conduct a mass immunization clinic starting next week(vaccines will then be in)
> - vaccine will be offered to
> - all adults
> - all pregnant women, especially those in 3rd trimester
> - children and youth who are five years since receiving pertussis vaccine.
> - newborn infants will be started on their vaccination program at 6 weeks of age(instead of 8 weeks).

> Weekly meetings are held with FHA Medical Health Officer.
> Watch this site for regular updates

> Marg Hamilton
> Health Program Manager.