 warns that whooping cough cases among county residents are dramatically increasing, 31 cases so far){kind=link}
Genesee County, Michigan – The Genesee County Health Department (GCHD) warns that whooping cough cases among county residents are dramatically increasing. Health officials have verified 31 instances of pertussis, also referred to as whoop cough, indicating a major health issue that might impact many more if not quickly treated.
Bordetella pertussis is the bacteria causing the very highly contagious respiratory illness known as pertussis. It starts off with symptoms like the average cold, including congestion, a runny nose, and a little cough. As the illness advances, though, it can cause weeks-long severe coughing spells. The namesake of the illness is the distinct “whooping” sound produced during these episodes as patients pant for air.
Young children, especially babies, are more susceptible to severe pertussis consequences, said the GCHD. Early identification and treatment are quite important since these consequences could be fatal. Teenagers and adults have been seen to unintentionally infect younger children with the illness, therefore causing significant community epidemics.
The GCHD is highly advising immunization in order to stop the pertussis outbreak. Although immunity declines with time, the pertussis vaccination has proven to be successful in avoiding the disease. Health officials are thus advising the public—especially those who live close to small children—to keep current with their vaccines and, should they be qualified, think about booster shots.
Read also: Series of fall and Halloween events in Flint start on Thursday, October 24
The health department also emphasizes the need of preserving appropriate hygienic standards. Effective methods to stop the transmission of pertussis and other infectious diseases are frequent hand washing, hand sanitizers, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the elbow. To stop more illness transmission, they also advise those who are sick to stay home and avoid close contact with others.
The GCHD encourages quick medical assessment for anybody displaying symptoms consistent with pertussis. Early medical action is vital and might include antibiotic therapy, which not only helps in reducing symptoms but also in stopping the spread of the infection to others.
The community’s collaborative response in following preventative actions and contemplating vaccination will be crucial in stopping this growing problem as pertussis cases keep increasing in Genesee County. Health officials are alert and and constantly following the situation in effort to provide public updates and direction so guaranteeing the health and safety of every citizen.
For more information on pertussis, you can visit the CDC’s website.