Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a very contagious disease caused by bacteria. The disease is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Although it can be prevented through vaccination, pertussis occurs regularly in Iowa. The disease begins like a common cold, with runny nose or congestion, and maybe a mild cough or fever. After one to two weeks, however, pertussis can evolve into a series of coughing fits that continue for weeks.
Because the symptoms seem familiar, adults often don’t recognize that they have pertussis and don’t realize they are spreading the disease with every cough. The results of pertussis for a child too young to be vaccinated or lacking proper vaccinations can be serious — even deadly.
Pregnant women should receive a pertussis vaccination to protect their unborn baby. Anyone who will be around a newborn should get a pertussis vaccination. See the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website for more information.
Children with pertussis usually have fits of coughing followed by vomiting, a “whooping” sound as air is inhaled and difficulty sleeping.
Adults often have a milder version, with only a lingering cough. However, pertussis may result in serious consequences for adults with lung conditions such as asthma.
According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, it is possible to get pertussis more than once.
Individuals with pertussis symptoms or anyone exposed to pertussis should contact their doctor. The doctor will take a mucus sample for testing. If diagnosed early in the disease process, an antibiotic may help.
Other treatments, such as fluids, oxygen and mild sedation, may help children during the prolonged period of severe coughing.
Questions? Call the Dallas County Health Department at 515-993-3750.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
