Friday, March 29, 2024
39.0°F

Immunization can slow surge of whooping cough

| September 6, 2010 9:00 PM

HAYDEN — Two North Idaho infants were recently hospitalized with whooping cough.

So far this year, 57 cases of whooping cough have been reported in the five northern counties. Last year, only six cases of whooping cough were reported in the same area for the entire year. The number of cases so far this year (through August) is eight times higher than average.

Both infants recently diagnosed are in intensive care. The pertussis bacteria, which is pervasive, is particularly dangerous for children younger than 6 months old.

“Immunization is our best tool,” said Randi Lustig, epidemiology program manager for the Panhandle Health District.

Pertussis is a highly contagious disease recognized by severe coughing spells that can cause vomiting and lack of

breath. Untreated, pertussis can develop into pneumonia, seizures and encephalitis.

It’s been surging in this area since last November, indicating community-wide transmission. Children and adults in group settings, such as school, are at the highest risk for catching and spreading whooping cough, and vaccination increases the likelihood of avoiding or minimizing the effects of the disease.

The effectiveness of the pertussis vaccine fades with time. National health officials recommend a booster for children at age 11 or 12. Adults who didn’t get the vaccine as a pre-teen should get one dose.

“The pertussis vaccination isn’t just for babies. Adolescents and adults need to be revaccinated, even if they were vaccinated as children,” Lustig said.

Babies and children don’t benefit from the vaccine’s maximum protection until age 5. It’s important for anyone around them to have a current pertussis vaccination.

PHD has immunizations with the pertussis vaccine for babies, adolescents and adults. For an appointment in your county, call:

• Kootenai County – 415-5270

• Benewah County – 245-4556

• Shoshone County – 786-7474