Скачать или смотреть What to know about the recent pertussis outbreaks in kids

In the past week, we’ve learned about two pertussis outbreaks in kids - as a mama of an infant (and ER doctor), here’s what you should know.

The good thing? There are absolute steps you can take here to keep baby safe! (And yes that’s spit-up on my left shoulder)

(1) Know the signs - while pertussis (whooping cough) traditionally presents with coughing spasms followed by a “whoop” when you inhale, it can present differently - especially in adults. There may be vomiting after coughing spasms, and the person may otherwise feel pretty decently between coughing spasms. Some people may just think they have a bad cold (especially in the first couple of weeks). BUT - they’re still contagious - and can stay that way for a couple of weeks after the cough even begins.

(2) Why does it happen? We have been getting outbreaks every 3-5 years recently -
(a) because some people are not vaccinated at all and
(b) because since shifting to the acellular vaccine in the 1990s, it wears off sooner - so if people are vaccinated but dont realize it’s been over 10 years, they’re at-risk. This accidental transmission from adults to younger children is often a potential cause of outbreaks and spread.

(3) Babies are especially at risk - in fact, up to 1/3 of babies with whooping cough need hospitalization.

(4) Protect - Pertussis / Whooping cough is entirely preventable with vaccination. Make sure that ALL adults around your baby have had their pertussis vaccine in the last 10 years. The vaccine is called TDap. Not sure or think it’s been longer than 5 years and just don’t remember? Just go ahead and get it - you can get from your doctor or most local pharmacies.

(5) Antibiotic treatment - If you think you may have pertussis, see your doctor. Unlike respiratory viruses, since pertussis is caused by a bacteria, antibiotics CAN be effective! Appropriate antibiotic Rx can both reduce length of illness, and also contagiousness.

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