Cases dropped during the pandemic but are now climbing once more. Here’s what to know.
After a temporary respite during the COVID-19 pandemic, whooping cough cases are experiencing a concerning resurgence. This respiratory illness, also known as pertussis, is becoming increasingly prevalent, raising alarms among public health officials.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of whooping cough cases reported in the United States has surpassed pre-pandemic levels.
Several factors have contributed to this resurgence. One key factor is the disruption of routine childhood vaccinations during the pandemic. This led to a decline in immunization rates, particularly for the pertussis vaccine. Additionally, fewer pregnant women received the vaccine, leaving newborns more vulnerable to infection.
“The pandemic delayed routine childhood vaccinations, including those that protect against whooping cough,” explained Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “This, combined with fewer pregnant women getting vaccinated, has likely contributed to the current uptick in cases.”
Whooping cough is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications, especially in infants. Symptoms include persistent coughing, often followed by a distinctive “whooping” sound, difficulty breathing, and vomiting. While the illness can affect people of all ages, infants are at the highest risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
“Infants are most at risk for getting seriously sick, particularly in their first months,” said Dr. Aaron Milstone, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. “They gasp for breath between fits of coughing, which can be alarming for parents.”
The best way to prevent whooping cough is through vaccination. The pertussis vaccine is highly effective and safe for people of all ages. Health officials recommend that adults receive a booster shot every 10 years, while children should receive a series of vaccinations according to the CDC’s recommended schedule.
“Prevention really is worth a whole lot more than treatment,” emphasized Dr. Schaffner. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from whooping cough.”
Understanding the Surge
The resurgence of whooping cough, or pertussis, is a significant public health concern. While the exact reasons for the current increase are complex, several factors contribute to the surge:
- Decreased Vaccination Rates: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine childhood vaccinations, leading to a decline in pertussis immunization rates. This has left many individuals, particularly children, susceptible to infection.
- Vaccine Hesitancy: Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy have also played a role in decreased vaccination rates. Addressing these concerns is crucial for controlling the spread of whooping cough.
- Seasonal Patterns: Pertussis cases often peak during the summer and fall months. This seasonal trend may be contributing to the current increase.
- Underreporting: Many cases of whooping cough may go undiagnosed or unreported, leading to an underestimation of the actual prevalence.
The Impact of Whooping Cough
Whooping cough can have severe consequences, especially for infants and young children. Complications may include:
- Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs can lead to difficulty breathing and oxygen deprivation.
- Seizures: Severe coughing can trigger seizures in some cases.
- Encephalopathy: Brain damage can occur due to lack of oxygen.
- Death: In rare cases, whooping cough can be fatal, particularly in infants.
Prevention and Control
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent whooping cough. The pertussis vaccine is highly effective and safe for people of all ages. The CDC recommends the following vaccination schedule:
- Infants: Five doses by age 6 years
- Adolescents: Booster dose at age 11-12 years
- Adults: Booster dose every 10 years
In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of whooping cough. This includes covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough
Whooping cough is characterized by a severe cough that often lasts for weeks or even months.
The disease typically progresses through three stages:
- Catarrhal stage: This initial stage lasts for about 1-2 weeks and resembles a common cold, with symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and low-grade fever.
- Paroxysmal stage: This stage is marked by severe coughing fits, often followed by a distinctive “whooping” sound. The coughing can be so intense that it can lead to vomiting, difficulty breathing, and even broken ribs.
- Convalescent stage: The coughing gradually subsides but may persist for several weeks.
How Whooping Cough Spreads
Whooping cough is highly contagious and spreads through the air. Infected individuals can transmit the bacteria by coughing, sneezing, or talking. The bacteria can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as toys or doorknobs.
Treatment for Whooping Cough
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for whooping cough. However, the effectiveness of antibiotics depends on how early the infection is diagnosed and treated. If the infection is diagnosed within the first few weeks of symptoms, antibiotics can shorten the course of the illness.
While antibiotics can help reduce the duration of the illness, they may not relieve the severe coughing fits. Supportive care, such as drinking plenty of fluids and using a humidifier, can help manage symptoms.
Protecting Yourself from Whooping Cough
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough. The pertussis vaccine is recommended for people of all ages. Infants should receive a series of vaccinations according to the recommended schedule. Adolescents and adults should receive a booster shot every 10 years.
In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of whooping cough. This includes covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
If you suspect you or someone you know has whooping cough, it is important to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the spread of the disease.
For more information, please visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html
Additional Resources:
- National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID): https://www.nfid.org/
- World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/westernpacific/health-topics/pertussis
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center: https://www.vumc.org/
- Johns Hopkins Children’s Center: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/johns-hopkins-childrens-center
*Disclaimer – This article is intended as informational only, it should not be used for diagnostic purposes. This article does not replace the need to consult with your primary care provider.
