Whooping Cough Warning: Protect Your Family with These Tips

Sarah Lee ARNP, FNP-BC

Chief Medical Officer & Cofounder

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Hello everyone,

We hope you're doing well. We want to alert you to a concerning health issue that's recently surfaced in our community: whooping cough, also known as pertussis. This highly contagious respiratory disease has made a return, and it's crucial for everyone to stay informed and take the right precautions.

What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It’s known for severe coughing fits that can last for weeks, with a distinctive "whooping" sound that follows a cough. Although it can affect anyone, it’s especially dangerous for infants and young children, who may face serious complications.

Symptoms to Watch For
Whooping cough usually starts with mild symptoms that resemble a cold:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Mild cough
• Low-grade fever

These early symptoms can evolve into severe coughing fits that:

• Include a high-pitched “whoop” sound during inhalation
• May lead to vomiting or difficulty breathing
• Can last for weeks or even months

Why the Concern?
Recent cases in our community underscore the importance of vigilance. Whooping cough spreads easily through respiratory droplets, so taking preventive measures is essential. It’s particularly dangerous for newborns and infants, who might face severe complications like pneumonia, convulsions, or even death.

Prevention is Key
Here’s how you can protect yourself and others:

• Vaccination: Make sure you and your family are up-to-date with vaccinations. The DTaP vaccine is recommended for young children, while the Tdap booster is advised for older children, teens, and adults. Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to safeguard their newborns.
• Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly and use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren't available.
• Stay Home When Sick: If you or your child develop symptoms of whooping cough, especially after contact with someone diagnosed with the disease, stay home to avoid spreading it.
• Seek Medical Advice: If you or anyone in your household shows symptoms of whooping cough, consult a healthcare professional right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. If you’ve been exposed and are not up-to-date on vaccinations, you might need prophylactic antibiotics.​

Book an Urgent Care Visit
If you suspect you or a loved one may have whooping cough, or if you have any concerns about symptoms, we encourage you to book an urgent care visit with us. We’re here to help you manage your health and keep our community safe.

Stay healthy and take care!

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