Pertussis

Pertussis (also known as whooping cough) cases are rising, including in Clackamas County.

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is a contagious respiratory infection. It can cause spasms of severe coughing that can last for weeks or even months. Infants and young children can become very ill with this infection. Whooping cough spreads through direct contact with mucus from the nose or throat, or from droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Illness usually begins within seven to ten days after being exposed. Anyone can become ill, but there is a vaccine that can protect against serious illness.

The illness begins with cold-like symptoms or an irritating cough. The cough becomes severe with violent episodes of coughing. Sometimes there can be a “whooping” sound when the person breathes in, or vomiting. Usually there is no fever. Some people may not have these violent coughs, whooping or vomiting.

If you think you or your child has whooping cough, keep them home and consult with their health care provider. Unlike many common respiratory illnesses, whooping cough can be treated with antibiotics. Anyone who might have whooping cough should avoid contact with children under one and pregnant people. You can prevent the spread of whooping cough in the same ways you can prevent the spread of other respiratory illnesses.

Protect Your Family from Whooping Cough

The pertussis vaccine protects against whooping cough. It is recommended for babies and children, and boosters are needed for teens and adults. People who are pregnant should get vaccinated during the early part of the third trimester of their pregnancy to protect their baby.