Public urged to watch for symptoms and stay current on vaccinations
Wyandotte County health officials are warning that whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is on the rise locally this fall. The Unified Government’s Public Health Department reports that several new cases have been confirmed. They prompt reminders for both residents and healthcare providers to help prevent further spread.
“We have seen multiple cases of whooping cough recently, and we are working with those individuals and people close to them to see if other people may have been exposed,” said Terrie Garrison, interim director of the Wyandotte County Public Health Department. “It’s important that people in our community keep an eye out for symptoms and stay on track with their routine vaccinations. This helps protect them and people near them who are most vulnerable to getting very sick, like babies and young children.”
Garrison also encouraged local healthcare providers to stay alert. “If providers see a patient with respiratory symptoms, they should consider that it may be whooping cough and offer testing and treatment when appropriate,” she said.
What Residents Should Know
According to the Health Department, whooping cough often starts with mild, cold-like symptoms. These symptoms then develop into violent coughing fits. The fits can last for weeks or even months. Residents who develop symptoms should contact a healthcare provider right away.
The department also recommends keeping vaccinations up to date. The DTaP vaccine is given to children under 7, while the Tdap vaccine is for older children, teens, and adults. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that pregnant women get vaccinated during each pregnancy. This helps protect newborns.
Health officials encourage residents to take steps to prevent the spread of illness. These steps include staying home when sick and washing hands frequently. Considering a face mask during periods of higher respiratory illness spread is also advisable.
Guidance for Healthcare Providers
The Health Department urges providers to test patients who show possible signs of pertussis. Providers should report confirmed cases to state or local health agencies. This helps track and contain outbreaks. Providers can find reporting information through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. They can also contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
About Whooping Cough
Whooping cough is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria and spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. While anyone can get it, it can be especially dangerous for infants, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms often appear within 5 to 10 days of exposure. They may begin as a runny nose. A mild cough or low-grade fever may also occur. After one to two weeks, coughing spells can become severe, sometimes causing vomiting or difficulty breathing. Some people make a “whoop” sound when gasping for air between coughs.
Whooping cough can be treated with antibiotics, especially if detected early. Health officials stress that early diagnosis and treatment are key to reducing complications and preventing spread.
