Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads through coughing, sneezing and close contact.
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can affect people of all ages. It continues to circulate in the Cayman Islands.
The infection can initially look like an ordinary cold, but the cough may become more severe and persist for several weeks. Infants and young children can be particularly vulnerable to serious complications.
Symptoms
Early symptoms can include:
- Runny nose
- Low-grade fever
- Mild or occasional cough
After one to two weeks, the cough may become more severe, with repeated or prolonged coughing fits. Other symptoms can include:
- A persistent or progressively worsening cough
- Difficulty catching your breath following coughing
- Vomiting following coughing fits
- A "whooping" sound when breathing in after coughing
The characteristic whooping sound does not occur in everyone with pertussis, and the cough can continue for several weeks.
If you or your child develops a persistent or worsening cough, particularly if it is accompanied by coughing fits, vomiting or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice and tell your healthcare provider that pertussis may be a possibility.
How Pertussis spreads
Pertussis spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through close contact.
Because early symptoms can resemble a common cold, people may not immediately realise that they have pertussis.
If you are unwell with a persistent or worsening cough, stay home from school, work and other activities and avoid close contact with others, particularly infants and people who may be at greater risk of serious illness.
Testing in Cayman
Pertussis testing is available through the Health Services Authority (HSA) at the Cayman Islands Molecular Biology Laboratory.
The availability of on-island testing means suspected cases can be tested and confirmed locally, allowing cases to be identified more readily.
If your healthcare provider suspects pertussis, they can advise you about testing and treatment.
Vaccination
Vaccination is an important way to reduce the risk of pertussis and help limit its spread.
In Cayman, children receive pertussis-containing vaccines as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule:
- 2 months: pertussis-containing vaccine
- 4 months: pertussis-containing vaccine
- 6 months: pertussis-containing vaccine
- 18 months: booster
- 4 years: booster
- Age 14: Tdap booster
Pregnant women are also recommended to receive a Tdap vaccination during the third trimester. This helps provide protection for both mother and newborn.
Adults should check with their healthcare provider or the Public Health Department to determine whether a pertussis-containing vaccine or booster is recommended based on their individual circumstances.
If you are unsure whether you or your child is up to date, check your vaccination records and contact Public Health or your healthcare provider for advice.
Vaccination clinics
The Public Health Department periodically offers vaccination clinics for children and adults who require a pertussis-containing vaccine or booster.
Upcoming clinics
Saturday, 26 September 2026
Saturday, 10 October 2026
Time: 9.00am–1.00pm
Location: Public Health Clinic, Smith Road Medical Centre, 2nd Floor
No appointment is necessary. Walk-ins are welcome.
As clinic dates and availability can change, contact Public Health for the latest information.
When to seek medical advice
Contact a healthcare provider if you or your child develops a persistent or worsening cough, particularly if there are repeated coughing fits, vomiting after coughing or difficulty catching your breath.
Seek urgent medical attention for significant difficulty breathing or other severe symptoms.
When seeking medical advice, mention any known exposure to pertussis.
If you are immunocompromised
People who are immunocompromised should discuss their vaccination status with their healthcare provider and seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms or have been exposed to someone with pertussis.
If you are pregnant
Pregnant women are encouraged to speak with the Public Health Department or their healthcare provider about Tdap vaccination during the third trimester.
For guidance on Tdap vaccination, contact the Public Health Department on (345) 244-2648.
Further information
For current vaccination guidance, testing information or advice about pertussis in the Cayman Islands, contact the Public Health Department on (345) 244-2889.
Health advice and vaccination recommendations can change, so check with Public Health or your healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information.
