I have recently heard a lot about PERTUSSIS. What is Pertussis?
By Maria Diaz, MD FAAP
Pertussis or “whooping cough” is a very contagious infection of the respiratory system caused by a bacteria called Bordetella Pertussis. It usually affects infants less than 6 months old before they are fully vaccinated and kids 11 to 18 years old whose immunity has started to decrease. Yes! Pertussis incidence has increased during the past year in the U.S.
Q: What are the symptoms of Pertussis?
A: The first symptoms are similar to those of a common cold: nasal congestion or runny nose, sneezing, mild cough and low grade fever. After 1-2 weeks the cough worsens into spells. These coughing spells can last for more than a minute. Usually the person coughs over and over until the air is gone from the lungs, and the person is forced to inhale with a loud “whooping” sound, but not all will; some will vomit. Sometimes infants don’t cough or whoop as older kids do. They may look as if they are gasping for air with a reddened face and may actually stop breathing for a few seconds. Between spells, the child usually feels well.
Q: What is the incubation period, and how does Pertussis spread?
A: The time between the infection and the onset of symptoms is usually 7-10 days but can be as long as 21 days. If you know you have been exposed to Pertussis, please, contact your doctor; don’t wait for the symptoms to occur. Pertussis is spread by close contact from person to person through tiny drops of fluid while coughing or sneezing.
Q: How is Pertussis diagnosed?
A: To confirm a case of Pertussis, nose and throat mucus samples are taken to examine and culture for Bordetella Pertussis. Your doctor may start antibiotics before having the results because these may take a couple of days.
Q: What is the treatment?
A: Since it is a bacterial infection, it can be treated with antibiotics. Infants and younger children are a greater risk for complications like pneumonia and apneas. In infants younger than 6 months of age, whooping cough can be life threatening.
Q: How can I prevent Pertussis?
A: The best way to prevent it is to get VACCINATED. It is given through the vaccine called DTaP and Tdap. The vaccine is very effective but not 100% effective. If the disease is circulating in the community, there is still a chance that a fully vaccinated person can catch this very contagious disease.
Q: When should I call the doctor?
A: Call your doctor if you suspect that your child has whooping cough or has been exposed to someone with it, if your child has a cold that is not getting better after 1-2 weeks and is having coughing spells, or anytime you have a question or concern.