Pertussis, commonly known as Whooping Cough, has seen a significant increase in cases among school-age children in Allegheny County, prompting the health department to issue an alert on social media. This illness can be particularly dangerous for babies, individuals with weakened immune systems, and children who have not received all recommended vaccinations.
Symptoms of Pertussis can lead to serious complications such as apnea, pneumonia, convulsions, or encephalopathy, a brain disease. In severe cases, hospital care may be necessary. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 4,864 cases of Whooping Cough nationwide this year, marking a significant increase over last year. Pennsylvania alone has seen 601 cases, a 456% jump from the previous year by May 25.
While most patients recover from untreated cases of Whooping Cough can become life-threatening, especially for infants and older individuals or those with existing lung conditions like COPD or asthma. Dr. Graham Snyder from UPMC emphasized the severity of Whooping Cough, stating that it can lead to low oxygen levels and serious illness.
The health department urges parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against Pertussis. They offer vaccination services and more information can be found on their website. It is crucial to stay informed and take preventive measures to protect against this potentially dangerous illness.
The rise in Whooping Cough cases among school-age children is a cause for concern for health officials in Allegheny County. Symptoms of the illness include coughing that lasts more than seven days and turns white or grayish-blue mucus at the end of each cough bout.
Untreated cases of Whooping Cough can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalopathy if left untreated.
To prevent the spread of Whooping Cough among school-age children and others at risk of developing the illness, it is essential to ensure that everyone is up-to-date on their vaccinations.
Health officials advise parents to make sure their children are fully immunized against Pertussis by getting them the recommended booster shots when they turn four years old and again when they turn six years old.
In addition to vaccinations, parents should also encourage good hygiene practices such as covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze and washing their hands regularly with soap and water.
If your child develops symptoms of Whooping Cough or any other respiratory illnesses
