Vaccines don't last a lifetime: Councillor
Even if you had a vaccine for whooping cough as a child, it may not protect you against contracting the illness as an adult.
District of Kent Councillor Lorne Fisher attended the first Fraser Health committee meeting on Monday morning, and came to council with that warning for the community.
There have been at least 80 reported cases of whooping cough in eastern Fraser Valley area, dating back over the last several months. Many of those cases were in Hope, but over the last few weeks cases have been seen in the Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs area.
Children are offered free immunizations against whooping cough, or pertussis, through the public health office as part of the regular immunization schedule. However, there is a pervasive "negative feeling" toward those regular immunizations in the Fraser Valley, including on native reserves, Fisher told council.
In order to put a stop to the outbreak, Fraser Health is offering free immunizations to adults in regular contact with children as well.
Read the initial warning from Fraser Health for information about warning signs, incubation periods, and where to find a clinic near you.
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