New Brunswick health officials have confirmed that the province’s whooping cough (pertussis) outbreak has officially ended, nearly a year after it first appeared.
The illness began in June 2024 on the Acadian Peninsula before spreading provincewide by August, according to a government release.
Throughout the outbreak, 1,029 cases were reported, with the highest number affecting children aged 10 to 14, followed by teenagers and younger children.
Nine individuals required hospitalization, but no deaths occurred.
Vaccination played a major role in controlling the spread, as 54,045 doses were administered, marking a 23 percent increase compared to previous years.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Yves Léger credited the dedication of health-care workers and pharmacists for their efforts in vaccine distribution.
“Their willingness to step up and administer the pertussis vaccine during the height of the outbreak played a critical role in protecting communities and curbing the spread of infection,” Léger said.
Health officials warn that while the outbreak has ended, cases of whooping cough could still emerge across the province.
The disease, which spreads easily through droplets from an infected person’s nose, mouth, or throat, tends to follow a cyclical pattern, with increases every five to seven years.
“While I’m happy to be announcing the end of the provincial outbreak of pertussis, we can expect to see some additional cases occur throughout the province,” Léger said.
He emphasized that staying up to date on vaccinations is the best way to prevent transmission, especially for pregnant women, infants, and those in close contact with them.
Anyone unsure about their immunization status can check their records through MyHealthNB or contact their local public health office.
