Public Health Advisory: Pertussis and Gastroenteritis

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES) and the Public Health Department (PHD) are issuing the below advisory to residents of Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac as follows:

Pertussis (whooping cough)- Grand Cayman

Following the confirmation of additional cases of whooping cough in Grand Cayman, MHES and PHD are strongly advising residents to ensure that children and teens’ vaccinations are up to date.

“We continue to have confirmed cases of pertussis affecting the community and multiple schools,” explains Chief Medical Officer, Dr.  Hilary Wolf.  “Parents and staff of the impacted schools have been notified directly.  However, it is  likely that there may be other cases within our community that have not yet been diagnosed.”

“We cannot stress enough how important it is for all parents to check that their children’s vaccinations are up to date,” adds Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez.  “As previously stated, the DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis) vaccine in infancy and childhood and the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) booster vaccine for teens and adults protect against pertussis, so up to date vaccinations are essential in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults  in circumstances like this.”

According to the newly updated Childhood and Maternal Immunisation Schedule for the Cayman Islands, the DTaP vaccine is offered at 2, 4 and 6 months, and the DTaP booster is offered at 18 months and 4 years.  Tdap is offered at the age of 14.  Tdap is also offered as part of the pregnancy immunisation schedule to expectant mothers during the third trimester of pregnancy.

“Parents who have questions about their children’s vaccinations should contact their paediatricians or public health officials for information and guidance,” Dr. Williams-Rodriguez continues. “We encourage those parents whose children and teens are either due or overdue for the DTaP and Tdap vaccines to utilise the school vaccination clinics or to book an appointment with the Public Health Department as soon as possible.”

Public guidance remains the same:  simple preventive measures—including covering coughs and sneezes, frequent handwashing, and staying home when unwell—remain important in limiting the spread of respiratory infections.  Students, staff, and families should be alert for symptoms such as a persistent or worsening cough, coughing fits, or vomiting after coughing.  Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice promptly and avoid close contact with others, particularly infants, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability and the Public Health Department will continue to monitor the situation closely.  Public updates will be issued regularly as additional information of public health interest becomes available.  For more information, contact the Public Health Department on 244-2889.

Gastroenteritis- Cayman Brac

MHES and PHD are also advising the public of an outbreak of gastroenteritis within the Cayman Brac community.

Cases have been identified across four educational settings, affecting both children and staff. In addition, cases have been observed in the wider community without epidemiological links to these settings, indicating broader community transmission.

Public health officials are actively monitoring the situation and working closely with affected institutions, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to reduce the risk of further spread.

Gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as “gastro,” is a contagious illness that can spread easily through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and poor hand hygiene. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fever.

“While most cases of gastroenteritis are mild, the presence of cases across educational and childcare settings, as well as in the wider community, underscores the importance of early action,” explains Dr. Wolf.  “Individuals who are unwell should remain at home and practice good hygiene to reduce transmission.”

“We are seeing transmission both within institutions and the broader community, and we are asking all residents—not just parents—to remain vigilant,” adds Dr. Williams-Rodriguez.  “Staying home when ill, practicing proper hand hygiene, and seeking care when needed are critical steps in protecting the community.”

“We are working closely with families, educational and childcare providers, and the wider community across Cayman Brac,” notes Cayman Brac Public Health Nurse, Kedine Hyde. “We encourage everyone to take simple precautions, including handwashing and avoiding contact with others when unwell, as these measures are key to reducing further spread.”

Residents are advised to take the following precautions:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Keep anyone experiencing symptoms at home and away from others
• Seek medical advice if symptoms are prolonged or severe (such as blood in diarrhoea or vomit), persistent, or if signs of dehydration occur
• Avoid preparing food for others while ill

Parents are reminded that children should only return to school or childcare settings after being symptom-free for at least 48 hours.

For further information or guidance in Cayman Brac, please contact Public Health Nurse Kedine Hyde at 244-7643 or 926-2436.