Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis.
During the 20th century pertussis was one of the most common childhood diseases and a major cause of death among children in the United States. After the pertussis vaccine became available in the 1940’s the incidence of this disease decreased more than 80%. During the past few years the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported increases in the numbers of cases. California has been experiencing these increases in cases as well.
Pertussis causes bursts, or paroxysms, of numerous, rapid coughs, apparently due to difficulty expelling thick mucus from the lungs. At the end of the paroxysm, an attempt to draw breath is usually accompanied by a characteristic high-pitched whoop. Children and young infants, especially, appear very ill and distressed. Vomiting and exhaustion commonly follow the episode.
Adults usually experience a milder course of the disease, but can transmit the disease to children who are too young to be fully vaccinated and also to those who are under-immunized or unimmunized, and adolescents who are old enough for their immunity levels to have waned. Young infants have the greatest risk for developing life-threatening pertussis-associated complications.
The good news is that there are vaccines available for young children, adolescents and adults. For vaccine recommendations click on the links below:
Pertussis Links
California Department of Public Health Pertussis Website
See and Hear Pertussis at Pertussis.com
