Case of whooping cough confirmed on flight from Whitehorse to Vancouver

Yukon Health officials have confirmed a case of whooping cough on a recent Air North flight from Whitehorse to Vancouver. The territory’s Communicable Disease Control and chief medical officer have advised passengers who were on the Nov. 6 flight to monitor for symptoms of the highly contagious respiratory disease.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, can cause a range of symptoms from mild cold-like symptoms to severe coughing fits. It is particularly dangerous for pregnant individuals in their third trimester and infants under one year of age. Passengers who were seated in rows 17 to 22 are considered to be at greater risk of exposure.

Health officials are urging high-risk individuals who were in the affected rows to contact their healthcare providers or Yukon disease-control authorities for guidance on antibiotics. Symptoms of whooping cough typically appear seven to 10 days after exposure, so it is important for passengers to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and preventative measures in combating the spread of communicable diseases. Yukon Health officials are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors to the territory.