The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES) and the Public Health Department are advising the public that cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, continue to be identified in the Cayman Islands.
Public Health is asking residents to be alert for symptoms, check the vaccination status of themselves and their children, and seek medical advice if they develop a persistent or worsening cough.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads through coughing, sneezing and close contact. Early symptoms can resemble a common cold and may include a runny nose, low-grade fever and a mild or occasional cough.
After one to two weeks, the cough may become more severe, with repeated or prolonged coughing fits. Some people may experience vomiting following coughing fits, difficulty catching their breath or a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing. The characteristic whooping sound does not occur in everyone, and the cough can persist for several weeks.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Hilary Wolf said the continued presence of pertussis in the community makes awareness and prevention particularly important.
“Pertussis can begin with symptoms that look very much like an ordinary cold, which means people may not immediately recognise it. We are asking everyone to be aware of the symptoms and to take a persistent or worsening cough seriously. Checking that you and your family are appropriately vaccinated is also an important step we can all take to help reduce the risk of infection and transmission.”
What to watch for
Members of the public should pay particular attention to:
Anyone experiencing prolonged or severe coughing, difficulty breathing or other symptoms of concern should seek medical advice and inform their healthcare provider about the possibility of pertussis.
Pertussis testing is available through the HSA at the Cayman Islands Molecular Biology Laboratory. The more recent availability of on-island testing allows suspected cases to be tested and confirmed locally, meaning cases can be identified more readily.
Parents and guardians are also asked to keep children home from school or other activities when they are unwell, particularly if they have a persistent or worsening cough or other respiratory symptoms. Adults who are unwell are likewise encouraged to stay home and avoid close contact with others, particularly if they have respiratory symptoms.
Check your vaccination status
The Public Health Department is encouraging residents to review their vaccination records and ensure that they and their children are up to date with the appropriate pertussis-containing vaccines.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez encouraged families to check their vaccination records now rather than waiting until someone becomes ill.
“Parents should check their children’s vaccination records, but adults should also check their own vaccination status. If you are unsure whether you or your child is up to date, contact Public Health or your healthcare provider for advice. If a vaccination or booster is due, we encourage you to get vaccinated.”
Vaccination is an important measure for reducing the risk of pertussis and helping to limit its spread, particularly among infants and others who may be at greater risk of serious illness.
Vaccination Clinics
The Public Health Department is offering vaccination clinics for children and adults who require a pertussis-containing vaccine or booster. No appointment is necessary; walk-ins are welcome.
Dates: Saturday, 26 September and Saturday, 10 October
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Public Health Clinic, Smith Road Medical Centre, 2nd Floor
Vaccination schedule
Children receive pertussis-containing vaccines at 2, 4 and 6 months, with booster doses at 18 months and 4 years, followed by a Tdap booster at age 14. Pregnant women are also recommended to receive Tdap during the third trimester. Adults should check with their healthcare provider or Public Health Department to determine whether a booster is recommended based on their individual circumstances.
Advise for immunocompromised individuals
Immunocompromised individuals should discuss their vaccination status with their healthcare provider and seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms or are exposed to individuals with pertussis.
Advice for pregnant women
Pregnant women are encouraged to contact the Public Health Department at 244-2648 for guidance on Tdap vaccination, which provides important protection for both mother and newborn.
The Ministry and Public Health Department will continue to monitor pertussis activity in the Cayman Islands and work with schools and healthcare providers to reduce the risk of further transmission.
For further information or guidance, contact the Public Health Department at 244-2889.