Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) is responding to a rise in pertussis (whooping cough) cases in the county. So far this month, there have been 8 confirmed cases, with five occurring since Monday (10/21). Several additional cases are pending and expected to be confirmed. Most cases are within large families, and exposure has occurred at gatherings attended by school-age children. Anyone who tests positive is notified and provided with education and treatment options. Letters have been sent to families that attended events where exposure may have happened.
The WCHCS Communicable Disease Team is doing case investigation and contact tracing, consulting with school and healthcare providers, and sending exposure letters.
“Whooping cough is so contagious that it occurs in clusters. It can make babies seriously ill. People with lung conditions or immunocompromised are also at higher risk,” said Dr. Amy Harley, Health Officer for Whatcom County Health and Community Services. “Anyone who was exposed and starts to have even mild symptoms should contact their doctor right away.”
Stay Home if Exposed and Symptomatic
Pertussis is a potentially serious illness that can affect people of all ages. It can lead to severe health issues, particularly in very young children, including apnea (stopping breathing), pneumonia, seizures, and, in some cases, death. Early symptoms may resemble a cold, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. However, after about a week, the cough can become more severe, leading to prolonged coughing fits that may result in gagging or vomiting.
Medication for Treatment and Prevention
Pertussis can be treated with antibiotics, household members of a confirmed case, and anyone exposed to it who is considered a high-risk close contact can be given preventative medication.
People who are pregnant and children 12 months or younger are considered high risk and would be offered preventative medication. Anyone who is regularly around very young children or pregnant people would also be offered prevention medication.
If you have been exposed and have symptoms, get Tested and See a Doctor
If you have been exposed to pertussis and are experiencing symptoms such as a persistent cough, please stay home until you’ve been evaluated and treated by a healthcare provider. This is crucial to help prevent the further spread of pertussis in schools, workplaces, and the community. Pertussis can be especially dangerous for young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Vaccination and Prevention
DTaP and Tdap vaccines offer protection against pertussis. Infants and young children should receive the DTaP vaccine in multiple doses between the ages of 2 months and 6 years. Preteens (ages 11-12) and adults who have not yet been vaccinated should receive the Tdap vaccine. Pregnant individuals should ensure they receive the Tdap vaccine between weeks 27 and 36 of pregnancy to help protect their newborns. Regular boosters are recommended in adulthood as immunity can wane over time.
Even vaccinated individuals can still contract and spread pertussis, though their symptoms are typically milder than those of unvaccinated individuals. Anyone with a prolonged cough or who has been in contact with someone diagnosed with pertussis should consult their healthcare provider for testing and treatment.
Vaccines are Available for Free to Kids Under 18
“Vaccination is the best way to protect against this illness, and it’s important for everyone, not just kids.” said Dr. Harley. “Many people fell behind on routine vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, so I encourage parents and caregivers to make sure kids are up to date on routine vaccines, and for everyone to take a moment to check their pertussis vaccination status. Staying up to date protects you and your loved ones, and increases immunity within our broader community to help stop the spread.”
For more information about the pertussis vaccine and where to find it, contact your healthcare provider or check with a local pharmacy. Vaccines for children through age 18 are provided at no cost in Washington State, though an office visit or administration fee may apply. Families who cannot afford the administration fee can request a waiver.
Preventive Measures
To prevent the spread of pertussis and other infectious diseases such as flu and COVID, public health officials recommend following basic illness prevention practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Stay home when feeling sick.
- Wear a mask if you must leave your home while unwell.
- Ensure you are up to date with all recommended vaccinations.
More information about pertussis, including updates on local cases and prevention tips, is available on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.
