Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. While often thought of as a childhood illness of the past, pertussis remains a public health concern, particularly for infants and vulnerable populations.
Pertussis is an acute infection of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. It is characterized by recurrent bouts of spasmodic coughing that can be severe and exhausting. The illness is often marked by the classic “whooping” sound that occurs when a person gasps for air after a coughing spell, which is caused by spasms of the larynx.
Symptoms typically develop within 5 to 10 days after exposure, but they can take up to 21 days to appear.
The illness progresses in three stages:
• Catarrhal Stage, 1 to 2 weeks
This stage resembles a common cold. Symptoms may include mild cough, runny nose, sneezing, and low grade fever. Individuals are highly contagious during this time.
• Paroxysmal Stage, 2 to 6 weeks
This stage is characterized by intense coughing fits, also called paroxysms, followed by the distinctive inspiratory whoop. Post-tussive vomiting and cyanosis may occur. Infants may present with apnea and may not always exhibit the classic cough.
• Convalescent Stage
During recovery, a residual cough can persist for weeks to months.
Persons with pertussis are considered infectious from the onset of cold like symptoms until three weeks after the start of the paroxysmal stage, or until completion of five days of appropriate antibiotics.
Babies younger than one year of age are at greatest risk for severe illness and complications.
Vaccination remains the most important way to prevent serious complications of pertussis. Immunization not only protects individuals but also helps safeguard infants and others who are most vulnerable.
As your Coroner, my role includes raising awareness about preventable illnesses that can have life threatening consequences. Recognizing symptoms early, seeking medical care promptly, and ensuring vaccinations are up to date are critical steps in protecting our community.
Stay informed. Stay vigilant. Protect one another.