Whooping cough outbreak reported here

Whooping cough has been occurring at a higher frequency statewide this year, and also in Yamhill County.

Since the beginning of 2000, there have been at least 10 cases diagnosed in Yamhill County, most in the Newberg area. The Oregon Health Division counted 57 cases statewide this year, compared to 21 by the same date last year.

There are important facts to be aware of with whooping cough, also called pertussis.

It is normally a childhood disease, but in recent years has been seen more frequently in teenagers and adults. These age groups with pertussis may not have the typical symptoms that are seen in infants and therefore may not be diagnosed early. They can then transmit the disease to susceptible people, including unvaccinated infants.

The disease is most dangerous to infants, especially those under six months, and may result in death. Infants and small children can be protected from pertussis through vaccination and by promptly diagnosing and treating all people with symptoms of whooping cough.

Whooping cough begins with a mild, cold-like illness that progresses to a coughing stage that may last four to eight weeks, with violent coughing spells. Pneumonia, seizures and encephalopathy (brain disease) may occur. It is spread by direct contact with respiratory secretions or by inhaling droplets from an infected person’s coughing or sneezing.

The recommendations from the Oregon Health Division include early diagnosis of all persons with a chronic cough (more than a week in duration), and prompt medical treatment of anyone who has been exposed to a confined case of pertussis, regardless of whether or not they have been immunized previously. Antibiotic therapy for contacts reduces the spread of the disease to family members and close contacts.

For further information, call your physician or the public health clinic at 434-7525. Vaccine is available at physicians offices, clinics and public health offices.