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In Knox County, Tennessee, there has been a rise in cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough. This is similar to the trend seen across the country, according to reports from the county’s health department. Pertussis is an infectious respiratory disease that causes severe coughing bouts, often accompanied by a distinctive “whooping” sound. In some cases, children with whooping cough may also experience vomiting and in rare instances, infants can stop breathing. The disease is primarily spread through close contact, much like how the flu is transmitted.
The Knox County Health Department is strongly urging individuals to get vaccinated against whooping cough, especially since most of the reported cases involve unvaccinated children. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, unvaccinated children are eight times more likely to become infected with pertussis. Infants are at the highest risk and protecting them from severe illness is crucial. Dr. Megan Edwards, the Public Health Officer at KCHD emphasized the importance of prevention through vaccination which has been proven safe and effective over time.
Individuals can visit their local health department and schedule an appointment to get vaccinated against whooping cough by calling 865-215-5555. Taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of pertussis is key to safeguarding public health and protecting vulnerable populations such as infants who are most susceptible to severe complications from the disease.
