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Austin officials are urging precautions heading into the holidays as cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, are on the rise. Austin-Travis County has seen more than 130 cases so far this year, a significant rise compared to previous years. More than half of these cases involve school-aged children.
“With this rise in whooping cough, we’re seeing the resurgence of a disease that is entirely vaccine-preventable,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “Infants and older adults are especially vulnerable and can become critically ill if they contract pertussis. “
Whooping cough is a very contagious illness that affects the lungs and is spread by coughing. It starts like a cold, but the cough can last for weeks or even months. Without treatment, a person with pertussis can be contagious up to 21 days. Early treatment might prevent serious symptoms from developing.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against pertussis, according to health officials. Children should receive their first DTaP shots from 2 months through 6 years of age. Preteens and teens are eligible for a Tdap booster.
“I urge all parents and caregivers to ensure their children are up to date on their vaccinations to help stop further spread, especially as we head into the holidays,” Walkes said.
Adults should talk to their healthcare providers about receiving a booster if they are around those at high risk, including children younger than one year of age, pregnant people and people with compromised immune systems.
The vaccines are offered at pharmacies, doctors’ offices and Austin Public Health’s Shots for Tots clinics.
Parents should take their child to the doctor if their child has been exposed to someone with pertussis and has developed symptoms.
Early symptoms, during the first 1-2 weeks, include:
• Runny nose, sneezing.
• Mild fever.
• Mild cough.
Later symptoms, from 1-10 weeks, include:
• A cough that gets worse.
• A loud “whoop” sound when coughing.
• Vomiting after coughing.
• Feeling better between coughing.
• Trouble sleeping or coughing worse at night.
• Difficulty breathing.
Doctors can treat pertussis with antibiotics in patients who have tested positive for pertussis and their close contacts. People diagnosed with pertussis should stay home from school and work until they have taken all of their prescribed antibiotics and spoken with their doctor.
