NL Health Services is warning of a whooping cough outbreak in the eastern zones, which includes St. John’s and the Avalon.

Officials say 50 cases of whooping cough have been reported in the province this year, with 42 of those in the eastern region. While most cases have involved school-aged children, the age of those diagnosed with whooping cough, also known as pertussis, ranges from two months to 89 years.

NL Health Services’ Medical Officer of Health and the health authority’s communicable disease control team is working with other health care professionals to monitor and respond to the evolving situation.

Officials are investigating cases and are identifying close contacts of those who have tested positive.

Symptoms of whooping cough usually begin 5-10 days after exposure, but can develop up to three weeks later. The disease begins with cold-like symptoms and a cough that worsens over time. Coughing fits may occur followed by a “whooping noise,” vomiting, turning blue, and the inability to catch one’s breath.

An appointment-only testing clinic has been set up at 50 Mundy Pond Road. Testing will be made available for people who are experiencing symptoms and who have been in contact with someone who has whooping cough.

As for treatment, antibiotics are recommended for people diagnosed with the infection, and close contacts who are considered high risk—such as babies less than a year old and pregnant women in their third trimester.

Vaccines to protect against whooping cough are part of the regular childhood immunization schedule—but it is recommended that adults and pregnant women get a booster.