The Polk County Health Department has informed DMPS that they are seeing an increase in the number of Pertussis cases throughout the county and the state.
What is Pertussis?
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is an infection that is easily spread from person to person through the air when a person with Pertussis coughs or sneezes. Pertussis affects the airways and symptoms usually start 7-10 days after exposure. Pertussis begins like a cold with a runny nose, sneezing, and cough which usually last for 1-2 weeks. Within one to two weeks of infection, uncontrolled coughing spells and a whooping noise may occur. During severe coughing spells, a person may vomit or become blue in the face from lack of air. The second stage usually lasts for four to six weeks. Between spells, the person often appears to be well. In adults and teens, symptoms may be milder.
What can you do?
The public health recommendation for you and your family is to make sure that your vaccinations are updated. Basic protection against Pertussis is provided through childhood Pertussis vaccinations, but this protection can decrease over time. Children who are not fully vaccinated for their age should be vaccinated against Pertussis. All adults should get a booster shot for Pertussis (which is the Tdap vaccination) to strengthen their immunity.
If you or a family member needs to be vaccinated against Pertussis or has questions, please contact your health care provider or the Polk County Health Department at (515) 286-3798.