Pertussis Is a Sickness on the Rise

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that is being diagnosed at an alarming rate. While cases dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic due to masking and social distancing, 2024 brought a significant resurgence. According to the CDC, pertussis cases increased more than sixfold compared to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels from 2019.

This is why it is so important to protect yourself and your loved ones from this preventable illness.

Babies and Older Adults Are Most at Risk

Pertussis often starts with mild, cold-like symptoms but can quickly become severe, especially for infants and older adults.

• Hospitalization Is Common in Infants: About 33% of infants under 12 months with pertussis require hospital care, with the highest risk among those under 6 months old.
• Unvaccinated Infants Face the Highest Risk: Babies younger than 2 months are especially at risk for severe complications if their mother didn’t receive the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy.
• Life-Threatening Complications Are Common: Two-thirds of infants with pertussis experience apnea (pauses in breathing), and about 22% develop pneumonia.
• Older Adults Are Also at Increased Risk: As we age, immune function declines, making severe respiratory infections more dangerous. Seniors with pertussis are more likely to develop complications such as pneumonia, weight loss, rib fractures from intense coughing, and prolonged illness.

While symptoms are typically milder in older children and adults, they can still lead to the spread of illness to more vulnerable populations.

Who Needs the Pertussis Vaccine?

The CDC recommends vaccination for everyone, with this guidance:

• Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine/booster during each pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks, to help protect newborns through maternal antibodies. The Tdap vaccination is safe for pregnant patients.
• Infants and young children should receive the DTaP vaccine series starting at 2 months of age.
• Caregivers and close contacts like parents, grandparents, and childcare providers should get the Tdap vaccine at least two weeks before spending time with newborns.
• Teens and adults should receive a Tdap booster every 10 years starting at age 11 to maintain immunity.
• Older adults, particularly those with underlying conditions, should talk to their doctors about their pertussis risk and whether they need a Tdap booster.

Protecting Infants, Pregnant Women, and Older Adults

To protect newborns and pregnant women, the CDC advises everyone to:

• Stay Vaccinated: Ensure your Tdap vaccine is current, especially if you’ll be in close contact with infants or older adults.
• Practice Hygiene: Wash hands often, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Limit Exposure: If you have cold-like symptoms, avoid contact with infants, pregnant women, and the elderly until fully recovered.

These simple steps can play a critical role in keeping vulnerable groups safe.

Recognizing Pertussis Symptoms

Pertussis often begins with mild, cold-like symptoms but can quickly become severe and life-threatening, especially in infants and older adults.

Early Symptoms (First 1 – 2 Weeks)

• Symptoms include a runny nose or congestion, low-grade fever, and a mild, occasional cough.

Severe Symptoms (1 – 6 Weeks or Longer)

• Coughing fits become rapid and uncontrollable, sometimes ending with a “whooping” sound as the person gasps for air.
• Vomiting, exhaustion, and difficulty breathing often follow coughing fits.

Higher Risk in Infants and Older Adults

• Babies may not cough but instead experience apnea (pauses in breathing).
• Serious complications are more common in infants, including pneumonia, convulsions, and, in rare cases, brain damage.
• Older adults are more likely to suffer from prolonged illness, pneumonia, and rib fractures from severe coughing.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you or your child has violent coughing fits, trouble breathing, or signs of apnea.

Schedule Your Vaccination Today

Don’t wait to protect yourself and your loved ones – schedule your vaccination today.