By Leslie Knowling
Holmes County Health Department
June 22, 2011
301
Pertussis, also known as Whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection. Most reported cases of pertussis are in children under 5 years of age. Pertussis is a concern for adolescents and adults as well. Unvaccinated adults and adolescents can contract the disease and spread it to others. Pertussis is spread by direct contact with the discharges from the nose and throat of people infected. It can be from a sneeze, a cough or other close contact. Pertussis can be transmitted for up to three weeks, but that time can be reduced to five days with appropriate treatment.
The symptoms of pertussis usually start seven to 10 days after exposure and can be up to 21 days. It generally starts out as a mild respiratory infection or common cold, including sneezing, runny nose, low-grade fever and a mild cough. These symptoms can last one to two weeks. The cough can then become more serious, with episodes of numerous rapid coughs followed by a crowing or high pitched whoop. There can be a thick, clear discharge with coughing. These episodes may continue for one to two months, and could cause vomiting, cracked ribs or a hernia. Serious complications of pertussis include: pneumonia, seizures, brain disorders, and death. Other complications include ear infections, loss of appetite, and dehydration.
There are vaccines available for infants, children, adolescents and adults to help protect you and your family from this potentially serious disease. Contact your physician or local health department for more information about Pertussis and vaccines.
