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Henderson County -- April 29, 2024: Henderson County is currently grappling with an outbreak of pertussis,
commonly known as whooping cough, with 27 confirmed cases, primarily affecting school-aged children. The Henderson County Department of Public Health is intensifying efforts to curb the spread of this highly contagious respiratory disease.
Pertussis, or whooping cough, gets its nickname from the severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like "whoop." This condition can be particularly dangerous for infants under 12 months old and people with compromised immune systems, potentially leading to serious complications and even death.
The Public Health Department is diligently working to identify and contact individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. Those at risk are being informed via letters and phone calls. The rapid response aims to manage and mitigate the spread within the community.
Understanding Pertussis
Pertussis is a bacterial infection that invades the airways and lungs, leading to severe bouts of coughing that can persist for weeks or even months. It spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 5 to 10 days after exposure but can take up to three weeks to manifest.
The coughing fits caused by pertussis can be so severe that they provoke vomiting and exhaustion. Despite its potential severity, initial symptoms often resemble those of a common cold, including a runny nose, congestion, and a mild cough, which makes early detection tricky.
Vaccination and Prevention
To combat this outbreak, health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The childhood vaccine DTaP provides protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis but its effectiveness diminishes over time. Thus, older children and adults, including pregnant women, are encouraged to receive the Tdap booster shot. This not only protects the individual but also helps safeguard infants and those unable to get vaccinated.
Families concerned about vaccination status or those needing the Tdap vaccine should contact their healthcare provider or the Henderson County Health Department at 828-692-4223. Keeping vaccinations up to date is the most effective way to prevent pertussis and its spread.
Community Action and Awareness
With ongoing efforts to control the pertussis outbreak, community awareness and cooperation are crucial. Ensuring that everyone, especially those in close contact with young children and vulnerable populations, is vaccinated can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
For more detailed information about pertussis and preventive measures, residents can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at CDC.gov/pertussis
Henderson County's proactive approach to managing this outbreak through community engagement and vaccination drives highlights the importance of public health vigilance and community solidarity in dealing with contagious diseases.
WNCTimes
