The Kentucky Department for Public Health has noted a rise in Pertussis cases (also known as Whooping Cough) across the state this year. There has also been an elevated rate of infectionacross the Lake Cumberland District.
Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that poses a serious health risk, especially to infants and young children. While vaccines have made great strides in controlling the spread of pertussis, the disease still exists, and cases can occur when vaccination rates drop. Understanding what pertussis is, how it spreads, and why vaccination is critical can help protect individuals and communities from this illness.
What is Pertussis?
Pertussis is a bacterial infection that attacks the respiratory system, making it hard to breathe and causing severe coughing fits. The disease gets its nickname, “whooping cough,” from the loud “whoop” sound that can occur when someone with pertussis gasps for air after a coughing spell.
Although anyone can get pertussis, it is especially dangerous for babies under one year old, as their immune systems are not fully developed. In severe cases, pertussis can lead to complications like pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death.
Symptoms of Pertussis
The symptoms of pertussis usually develop in three stages:
How Does Pertussis Spread?
Pertussis spreads through tiny droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People nearby can breathe in these droplets and become infected. Because the early symptoms of pertussis mimic a cold, many people unknowingly spread the disease before realizing they are sick.
Babies often catch pertussis from family members, caregivers, or others who are not vaccinated. This is why vaccination is so important, not just for individuals but for protecting those most vulnerable to the disease.
Why Vaccination is Critical
Vaccination is the best way to prevent pertussis. The DTaP vaccine protects children against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, while the Tdap vaccine is a booster for older children and adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pregnant women get the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to pass protective antibodies to their babies.
Keeping up to date with pertussis vaccinations helps protect both individuals and the community. When most people are vaccinated, it creates herd immunity, making it harder for the disease to spread.
A Community Effort
Pertussis is a preventable but serious disease. Staying up to date on vaccinations can save lives, especially for infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated. By getting vaccinated and encouraging others to do the same, we can protect ourselves and our most vulnerable neighbors from this dangerous illness. Contact your local health department or healthcare provider to learn more about pertussis vaccines and how you can help keep your community safe.
