Pertussis outbreak: What you need to know

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can be very serious, especially for infants. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The symptoms of pertussis can vary depending on the age of the person infected. In infants, the infection can be very severe and may even be fatal. Symptoms in infants typically include:

• Coughing spells that can last for several minutes
• Whooping sound during coughing
• Vomiting
• Difficulty breathing

In older children and adults, the symptoms of pertussis are usually milder and may resemble those of the common cold. These symptoms may include:

• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Sneezing

Pertussis is diagnosed with a laboratory test that detects the bacteria in the nose or throat. Treatment for pertussis typically involves antibiotics. It is important to start treatment as soon as possible to prevent serious complications.

The best way to prevent pertussis is to get vaccinated. The pertussis vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. The vaccine is very effective at preventing pertussis, but it does not provide complete protection. Some people who are vaccinated may still get pertussis, but the symptoms are typically milder.

If you think you or your child may have pertussis, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.

Here are some additional things you need to know about pertussis:

• Pertussis is a very contagious disease. It is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• The symptoms of pertussis can vary depending on the age of the person infected. In infants, the infection can be very severe and may even be fatal.
• The best way to prevent pertussis is to get vaccinated. The pertussis vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule.

If you think you or your child may have pertussis, it is important to see a doctor right away.