What is Pertussis?

Pertussis is a serious infection that spreads easily from person to person. Early symptoms of pertussis are similar to the common cold; they may include runny nose, sneezing, and a low-grade fever. Coughing then becomes worse.  Sometimes a “whoop” sound happens while gasping for air at the end of a coughing spell. This occurs more often with children than adults. The “whoop” sound gives pertussis it’s more common name: whooping cough. The severe coughing can last for weeks, even months, and can lead to weight loss, incontinence, rib fractures, and passing out.

Prevention

Pertussis is most contagious before the coughing starts. The best way to prevent pertussis is by getting vaccinated. Adults and adolescents can give pertussis to infants who have not yet had all of their vaccines, even before a cough develops. This is the reason why parents, grandparents, and older siblings are often the ones who spread pertussis to infants.

Vaccination

Children younger than 7-years-old need to get a vaccine called DTaP to protect against pertussis. The vaccine covers pertussis, as well as tetanus and diphtheria.  Immunity, created from being vaccinated, can fade over time, and periodic “booster” doses are needed by adolescents and adults to keep their immunity strong. The booster vaccine varies depending on the person’s age and other conditions such as their vaccination history and pregnancy. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

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