Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that poses a significant public health concern, particularly for infants, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Whooping cough cases are on the rise in Maryland, and vaccination is key to protecting our most vulnerable. Here’s what you need to know:
- The DTaP vaccine is strongly recommended for all individuals starting at 2 months of age.
- Pregnant women should receive the TDaP vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks gestation to protect themselves and their newborns.
- A person can be infected for 21 days prior to developing symptoms, so a person who appears and feels well may still be infectious.
- Many positive cases have been traced to grandparents, so it’s crucial for family members who haven’t been vaccinated recently to vaccinate again.
- Grandparents, daycare providers, and close family members should receive a TDaP booster every 10 years.
- If you’re pregnant, ask your healthcare provider about vaccination to ensure your baby is safe from day one.
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Adults should contact their primary care provider or the health department to schedule an appointment for TDaP vaccination. For persons living and/or working in Caroline County, the Caroline County Health Department currently administers adult Tdap vaccinations at no out-of-pocket cost, regardless of healthcare coverage. Call 410-479-8189 for info or to schedule a vaccination.
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Symptoms and Progression
Understanding the signs and symptoms, the importance of vaccination, and available treatment options is essential for preventing the spread of whooping cough. The illness typically begins with symptoms similar to those of a common cold, including:
- A runny nose
- Sneezing
- Mild fever
- A dry, occasional cough
After one to two weeks, the disease progresses to severe coughing fits, often followed by a high-pitched “whooping” sound as the person gasps for air. These coughing spells can be so intense that they cause vomiting, extreme fatigue, and difficulty breathing. The violent coughing can last for weeks and is often referred to as the “100-day cough.” While adults and older children may experience milder symptoms, infants are at a much higher risk of complications, such as pneumonia, apnea (pauses in breathing), or even death.
Importance of Vaccination and Revaccination
Vaccination is the most effective defense against whooping cough. The disease was far more common before the introduction of the whooping cough vaccine in the 1940s. Today, two vaccines help protect against whooping cough:
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis): This vaccine is given to children in a series of five doses, typically starting at two months of age and continuing through to ages 4 to 6.
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Booster): This booster is recommended for older children, teenagers, and adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that preteens get their first Tdap dose around age 11 or 12. Adults who have never received a Tdap vaccine should get one, and pregnant women should receive the TDaP vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks gestation to protect themselves and their newborns.
Because immunity from the vaccine can wane over time, revaccination is crucial, especially for adults who will be around newborns or infants. Vaccination during pregnancy can protect babies in the first few months of life when they are most vulnerable to severe whooping cough complications but too young to be fully vaccinated.
Treatment and Care
Once a person is diagnosed with whooping cough, early treatment with antibiotics can help reduce the severity of the illness and prevent its spread to others. However, antibiotics are most effective when given during the early stages of the infection, before the severe coughing starts. In more advanced cases, the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and provide supportive care.
For infants and individuals with severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Supportive treatments might include:
- Ensuring adequate hydration, particularly if vomiting occurs frequently
- Monitoring breathing and oxygen levels
- Using suction to clear airways, especially in young infants
- Administering antibiotics to close contacts to prevent further spread of the disease
Infected individuals should isolate to avoid transmitting whooping cough, especially to those who are most vulnerable, like infants and elderly people.
For more information about whooping cough, including symptoms and treatment, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html