Fairfax County, Virginia is currently experiencing a rise in whooping cough cases just as students are preparing to return to school. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is an illness caused by a bacteria that spreads through the air from person to person, particularly when individuals spend a lot of time together or share breathing space.
Initially, whooping cough can mimic symptoms of a common cold, such as a runny or congested nose, low fever, and a mild cough. These symptoms may persist for one to two weeks before progressing to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks or even months. During these fits, individuals may make a high-pitched “whoop” sound when breathing in, vomit, feel tired, experience difficulty sleeping, struggle to breathe, or even fracture a rib from severe coughing.
It is crucial to note that babies with whooping cough may not exhibit a cough but instead gasp for air or have pauses in breathing, known as apnea, which can be life-threatening. In fact, about one in three babies under the age of one who contract whooping cough require hospitalization. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems or severe asthma are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from the illness.
To prevent whooping cough, the Fairfax County Health Department recommends vaccination as the best course of action. There are two types of vaccines available for protection against whooping cough: DTaP and Tdap, which also guard against diphtheria and tetanus. Health officials advise the following vaccination schedule:
– Children should receive five doses of DTaP, with at least one dose administered on or after their 4th birthday.
– Preteens between the ages of 11 and 12 should receive a booster dose of Tdap before starting 7th grade.
– Adults should get a Tdap booster every 10 years and during each pregnancy.
By staying up to date with vaccinations, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of contracting whooping cough and help prevent its spread within the community. It is essential to prioritize vaccination not only for personal protection but also to safeguard those who may be more vulnerable to severe complications of the illness. Taking proactive measures such as vaccination is key to promoting overall health and well-being for individuals of all ages in Fairfax County.