Cases of whooping cough have been on the rise in Southern California. The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health says that the total number of cases in the county has nearly tripled compared to last year, which is why they are urging everyone to take preventative measures against the highly contagious respiratory illness.
Whooping cough is also known as pertussis – but the colloquial way of referring to it is not only easier, it’s descriptive name identifies the main symptom: a distinct sound made from the intake of air after coughing.
The symptoms also include a runny or stuffed up nose, low grade fever, fatigue, and coughing fits. They can last up to 10 weeks, and the sickness itself is highly contagious and spread through respiratory droplets.Pregnant women, Infants under 12 months and newborns are at the highest risk and are encouraged to get the vaccine against whooping cough, known as TDAP.
Residents are encouraged to ensure their families are up to date on their Tdap and DTaP vaccinations. Additional preventative measures include the classics like washing your hands, wearing a facemask, covering your coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and going to the doctor if you suspect you have whooping cough. Even one dose of the TDAP vaccine can protect against hospitalization and death.
For general information about whooping cough, contact San Bernardino County Public Health at 800-722-4794 or visit their website for links to resources.
