Whooping cough still around |
| August 16, 2012 |
|
Whooping cough cases in northern Idaho are down
this year compared to the high numbers in 2010
and 2011, but the highly contagious illness is
still making the rounds. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is recognized by severe coughing spells that can cause vomiting and loss of breath. Immunization helps prevent whooping cough, which is particularly dangerous for babies younger than a year old. “People who have severe coughing spells that don’t improve or go away within two weeks should consider that they may have Pertussis and seek medical attention” said Mary Petty, Community Services program manager for the Panhandle Health District (PHD). The pertussis vaccine for babies to age 6 is the DTaP and also includes vaccine for diphtheria and tetanus. Children start the vaccination series when they’re two months old and receive it in installments to age six. Protection from the vaccine wears off over time. A booster shot, Tdap, provides protection for adolescents and adults. Only one dose is needed. In Idaho, children entering seventh grade are required to have the Tdap booster. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the Tdap booster for all adults and particularly for pregnant women and those in contact with infants. Dr. Tom Clark, a epidemiologist for the CDC, told the New York Times that pertussis is making a comeback possibly because immunity provided by the vaccine wears off, especially in adults who are decades past their most recent vaccination. The DTaP and Tdap immunizations are available by appointment at PHD offices in Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry. Call (208) 263-5159 in Sandpoint and (208) 267-5558 in Bonners Ferry. While Idaho’s pertussis numbers are decreasing this year, Washington has declared a pertussis epidemic. Spokane has confirmed 82 cases this year and another 52 are suspected. Western Washington reports more than 2,500 cases. Pertussis typically starts with a runny nose, but a cough quickly takes over. People spread pertussis by coughing and sneezing while they’re in close contact with others who then breathe in the pertussis bacteria. People with pertussis are contagious before the cough starts and stay contagious for up to three weeks. Doctor-prescribed antibiotics can kill the infection and prevent it from spreading. For more information on whooping cough, visit www.phd1.idaho.gov. |