Lewis and Thurston Counties currently have positive Pertussis (Whooping Cough) cases. It usually takes 5 to 10 days for symptoms to appear after exposure to the bacteria that cause whooping cough. Sometimes symptoms don’t develop for as long as 3 weeks.
Early symptoms of pertussis (whooping cough) can look like a common cold. Whooping cough is known for the “whoop” noise when someone gasps for air after a coughing fit. Babies and young children may not cough but may have difficulty breathing instead.
Vaccines are the best way to protect against whooping cough. Talk to a health care provider if you have questions about whooping cough vaccines.
See a healthcare provider if you or your child are coughing violently. Seek immediate care for breathing difficulties.
If you have known exposure to Pertussis there are prophylactic treatments available in some cases. For more information about pertussis (whooping cough) visit www.cdc/whoopingcough
