Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Vaccination

What Is Pertussis?

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. It causes severe coughing fits that can last for weeks and may make it difficult to breathe, eat, or sleep.

Pertussis is especially dangerous for infants, young children, pregnant individuals, and older adults, but anyone can become infected — even if they were vaccinated as a child, as immunity can fade over time.

The infection spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact, making outbreaks more likely in households, schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings. Protect yourself from serious complications and help stop the virus from spreading by getting your pertussis vaccination at Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic in Orléans, Ottawa.

The Government of Canada’s Pertussis Page

Is Pertussis Vaccination Required?

There is no routine vaccination requirement for pertussis for international travel, and countries do not require proof of pertussis vaccination for entry.

However, pertussis continues to circulate globally, and outbreaks can occur even in countries with strong vaccination programs. Travelers may be at increased risk when visiting areas with limited healthcare access, travelling with infants, or spending time in crowded settings.

Vaccination is strongly recommended for:

• Adults who have not received a Tdap booster
• Pregnant individuals (recommended during each pregnancy)
• People travelling with or visiting newborns and infants
• Healthcare, childcare, and education workers

A travel health consultation can help determine whether a booster is recommended based on your health history and travel plans.

How Can I Protect Myself Against Pertussis?

The most effective protection against pertussis is vaccination.

Adults typically receive the pertussis booster as part of the Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis). Even if you were vaccinated as a child, a booster may be needed because immunity decreases over time.

Additional preventive steps include:

• Staying up to date on routine vaccinations
• Avoiding close contact with people who are coughing or ill
• Practicing good hand hygiene

Before travel, speak with a healthcare provider or travel clinic to review your vaccination history and ensure appropriate protection.

Can Pertussis Result in Serious Illness?

Yes, pertussis can result in serious and prolonged illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.

In infants, pertussis can cause breathing pauses, pneumonia, seizures, and can be life-threatening. In adults, the illness may cause weeks or months of severe coughing, rib fractures, sleep disruption, and missed work or travel.

There is treatment available, but early vaccination is far more effective than treatment after infection. Preventing infection also helps protect infants and others who may not be fully vaccinated.