PERTUSSIS (WHOOPING COUGH) CASE INCREASE IN WEST VIRGINIA

Cases of whooping cough (pertussis) are on the rise in West Virginia and our region. The Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department urges residents across our region to stay alert and take action to help prevent the spread of whooping cough.

Pertussis is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria and can spread easily through coughing and sneezing.

Symptoms:

  • Persistent coughing fits, often followed by a “whooping” sound
  • Difficulty breathing during coughing spells
  • Vomiting after coughing
  • Exhausting following coughing episodes
  • Runny nose, low-grade fever, and mild cough in the early stages

Recommendations:

  • Stay up to date on vaccinations that protect against whooping cough (DTaP for young children and TdaP for older children and some adults). Vaccines provide the most effective protection against whooping cough.
  • Stay alert for symptoms in yourself and family members. Early symptoms may look like a cold, but in a week or two they get more severe. People may experience violent coughing fits that can cause vomiting or make it hard to breathe.
  • Talk to a healthcare provider if you have symptoms. Your healthcare provider may do a test to check for whooping cough. If you are diagnosed with whooping cough, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics. It is important to use antibiotics only as directed by a healthcare provider.
  • Take other precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, such as staying home when sick and practicing good hygiene. Wearing a face mask is also an option to provide another layer of protection.

While pertussis can affect people of all ages, it can be especially serous for infants, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.

If experiencing symptoms consistent with pertussis, call ahead before entering any healthcare facility.  This will allow staff to take proper precautions to prevent further spread of the illness and ensure the safety of others.

For more information on Pertussis or Pertussis vaccinations, contact the Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department at (304) 234-3682.