Two West Virginia University physicians are encouraging people to recognize the early symptoms of pertussis, or whooping cough, so they can take precautions and seek treatment, when necessary, to avoid further spread of the infection.
Since early November, the number of identified cases of whooping cough in the West Virginia has increased to a magnitude not seen since 2010, as reported by the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health.
“Whooping cough is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis, which spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes and talks. People in close contact, sharing spaces including houses, apartments, dorm rooms, enclosed areas or classrooms, are at higher risk for spreading whooping cough,” explains Dr. Matt Lokant, assistant professor of infectious diseases, WVU School of Medicine, and WVU Health System health care epidemiologist.
According to Dr. Lokant, the people at highest risk of infection are those without whooping cough vaccinations or up-to-date booster shots, and those with a compromised immune system. Infants younger than 12 months and pregnant women are also at higher risk.
Symptoms of whooping cough begin similar to a cold – a runny nose, mild cough and fever.
“After one to two weeks, the cough may worsen, causing a ‘whooping’ sound when inhaling and difficulty breathing. Coughing fits can cause vomiting,” said Dr. Lokant.
He recommended typical disease prevention measures, like staying home if ill with cold symptoms, washing hands frequently and wearing a mask to prevent the spread of germs.
“It is important to seek medical care if there is any breathing difficulty, violent coughing fits — especially with ‘whooping’ sound or vomiting, suspected exposure to whooping cough or severe dehydration. Dehydration can be seen with dizziness, dry mouth, and not tolerating food and water,” said Lokant.
The effect of whooping cough on children is more pronounced because their systems are still developing, said Dr. Lisa Costello, associate professor of pediatrics, WVU School of Medicine, and WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s hospitalist.
“Infants tend to be the most severely impacted because their airways are small and their immune systems are still developing. Pertussis can cause intense coughing fits that can interrupt breathing or even cause breathing pauses, or apnea, in infants. This difficulty in breathing can cause lack of oxygen to the brain,” said Dr. Costello.
“Whooping cough is best treated in the early stages with antibiotics. Preventive antibiotics may be recommended for those who have come in close contact with someone confirmed to have the infection. Drinking fluids and monitoring breathing are also very important,” said Dr. Costello. “Hospital care, including oxygen support and IV fluids, may be needed for some, particularly for infants or severe cases.
“If left untreated, the infection can eventually resolve, but it may take weeks or months. The coughing fits can last for more than 10 weeks. People who don’t seek treatment are contagious for longer periods,” Costello said.
Doctors advise that the most effective way to protect against whooping cough, its spread and complications, is to stay up to date on immunizations through primary care practices and health departments, which often offer vaccines for free or low cost. Pregnant women who get vaccinated can pass that protection on to their babies.
“It’s also important to get health information from trusted sources,” said Dr. Costello.
