Vaccine Tips for Preventing Whooping Cough Surge in Connecticut

Whooping Cough Cases Surge in Multiple States

More than 10,800 cases of Whooping cough have been recorded this year so far , marking a significant increase compared to previous years . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) reported that cases of whooping cough are more than three times higher this year than they were at the same time last year . In 2023 , there were only 2,918 recorded cases , while this year , the number has risen to 10,865 . This surge indicates a return to pre - pandemic levels when there were 8,271 cases recorded in 2019.

Doctors attribute the decrease in whooping cough cases over the past few years to COVID-19 mitigation measures such as masking , remote learning , and social distancing . With the lifting of these measures , people are returning to normal activities , leading to a resurgence in whooping cough cases . Dr. Mike Patrick from Nationwide Children 's Hospital in Columbus , Ohio , emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease , stating that without the vaccine , the number of cases would be much higher.

Understanding Whooping Cough and Vaccination

Whooping cough , also known as pertussis , is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria . The bacteria attach to the cilia in the upper respiratory system , causing airway swelling and a severe cough . Infected individuals can spread the disease through coughing and sneezing , with symptoms ranging from a runny nose and cough to violent coughing fits lasting up to 12 weeks.

Vaccination is crucial in preventing whooping cough , with two types of vaccines available : DTaP for babies and children under 7 , and Tdap for older children , adults , and pregnant women . Health officials recommend getting vaccinated to protect against whooping cough , diphtheria , and tetanus . Despite the effectiveness of vaccines , there has been an increase in exemptions for routine childhood vaccination , resulting in a rise in whooping cough cases.

Preventing Whooping Cough in Fairfax County

Fairfax County , Virginia , is currently experiencing a spike in whooping cough cases as students prepare to return to school . The Fairfax County Health Department highlighted the symptoms of whooping cough , which can initially resemble a common cold before progressing to severe coughing fits . People with weakened immune systems or asthma are at a higher risk of severe illness from whooping cough.

To prevent the spread of whooping cough , health officials recommend vaccination with DTaP and Tdap vaccines . These vaccines not only protect against whooping cough but also diphtheria and tetanus . It is important for individuals to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading the disease , especially in high - risk populations like infants and pregnant women.