Whooping Cough (Pertussis) -Get Vaccinated!
April 6th, 2012Pertussis, commonly known as “Whooping Cough” for the characteristic noisy deep inspiration between coughing, is making a comeback. This condition is often characterized by severe coughing fits and lasts about 6 weeks. The disease is highly contagious and spread by a bacteria in airborne droplets when an infected person coughs. Many physicians across the U.S. have seen a rapid resurgence of cases. In my practice I have seen several cases recently. Typically, patients will complain of a severe “cold” that just won’t go away even after 2 weeks, and very bothersome coughing spells. Antibiotics are usually effective in the early phases of the illness. In adults with normal immune systems, the infection is not life threatening. However, if the disease is spread to young infants, people on chemotherapy, or the immunocompromised, the disease could be fatal. The good news is that there is a vaccine.
Why is whooping cough more common now than before? Almost all children in the U.S. are required to have pertussis vaccination prior to attending school. However, the immunity for pertussis wanes after 20 years. Most Americans have not gotten their booster shots. The current recommendations from the CDC is that people between 19-64 should get a dose of the pertussis vaccine. In my office I recommend getting the Tdap vaccine, as this also includes tetanus and diptheria in one shot. If you had a tetanus booster within the last 10 years, it is still ok to get the Tdap. If you are above 65, you should also get a booster. This is especially important for grandparents who may be in contact with a newborn. It is imperative that all people who work in healthcare, child care, and schools get the pertussis vaccine. Protect yourself, see your doctor, get vaccinated!
