During the period between November 23, 2023 and the start of 2024, the United States has seen a significant increase in reported cases of whooping cough, with over 27,000 cases compared to less than 17,000 cases over the past four years combined. This spike in cases was expected as whooping cough tends to have peaks every 3-5 years, but the pattern was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness, can cause severe coughing fits and breathing difficulties, particularly affecting infants under one year old who face the highest risk of complications. Complications such as pneumonia can also arise in teens and adults, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough, with the CDC recommending five doses of the childhood vaccine (DTaP) and booster shots for children and adolescents. Pregnant women are advised to receive the Tdap vaccine to protect their newborns.
The decrease in whooping cough cases during the pandemic was attributed to public health measures like masking, social distancing, and staying home when sick. However, health officials emphasize that these precautions should continue to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
Mesa County residents can receive the pertussis vaccine at the Mesa County Public Health Clinic and are encouraged to consult their primary care physician to ensure they are up-to-date on immunizations. While vaccination effectiveness may diminish over time, it remains the best protection against severe illness and complications from whooping cough.
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