January 6, 2009

Press Release

Four Corners Health Department

Contact:  Vicki Duey 402-362-2621

Whooping Cough Cases reported

Four cases of pertussis (also known as whooping cough) have been reported to Four Corners District Department since December 15.  70 cases of pertussis occurred in Nebraska during 2007 and 291 cases were reported in 2008.

Whooping cough, a vaccine preventable disease, is a highly contagious infection that causes an uncontrollable, violent cough lasting several weeks or even months. Cases reported in children younger than 1 year of age have the highest rates for complications and even death.

The symptoms are those of a common cold usually followed by severe coughing and the typical “whoop” in 2-3 weeks.  Although not always present, the “whoop” occurs while taking a breath during the coughing occurrence.  Vomiting after a coughing spell may also occur.  Seek the advice of your practitioner if you are experiencing these symptoms.

Testing for pertussis by your physician confirms the diagnosis. When a case of pertussis is reported, follow up is conducted by Four Corners Health Department to assure that the individual is treated with antibiotics through their medical provider, receives instruction to stay home from school/work/daycare for 5 days and that close contacts are prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection. If untreated, a person can spread pertussis from the start of symptoms up to three weeks after the start of the coughing spells.

Vaccination is the cornerstone of pertussis prevention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pertussis vaccine is 80-85% effective in preventing the illness.   Despite the effectiveness of vaccination, pertussis continues to occur in the United States among all age groups.   Anyone who has not had pertussis previously or who has not received the pertussis vaccine can get the disease.  Older children, adolescents and adults can become susceptible to pertussis five to 10 years after their last dose of pertussis containing vaccine.  Older children and adults can carry the germ and spread it even though their cold-like symptoms may be so mild medical care may not be sought.

For more information go  to www.fourcorners.ne.gov or call Four Corners Health Department at 402-362-2621 (toll free 1-800-337-3573)