The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has advised residents of exposure to a childhood disease.<\/p>\n
The health unit has confirmed a possible exposure point in Leamington for pertussis, also known as whooping cough, after a case was identified in the area.<\/p>\n
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory and throat infection that spreads through close contact with an affected person.<\/p>\n
“Early symptoms can look like a common cold and may include a runny or congested nose, sneezing, mild fever, and mild cough,” read a release from the health unit. “After one to two weeks, the cough may become more severe and lead to coughing spells, difficulty breathing, a whooping sound when breathing in, or vomiting after coughing.”<\/p>\n
The health unit has asked anyone who visited the Central Erie Shores Walk-In Clinic at 33 Princess Street, at the following days and times, to self-monitor for 21 days.<\/p>\n
Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.<\/p>\n
Tuesday, June 9, from 1:20 p.m. to 5 p.m.<\/p>\n
The health unit advises that anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider before attending any appointment. High-risk individuals include those who are or may be pregnant, have contact with infants, or who may be immunocompromised or at risk of serious illness.<\/p>\n
The WECHU also adds that being vaccinated is the best line of defence.<\/p>\n