Yavapai County, Arizona. – Yavapai County has seen an increase in cases of whooping cough, also known as “whooping cough,” in recent weeks, according to the county health department. Although the number of cases remains low, staff have reported an increase in cases over the past few weeks.

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a serious respiratory infection caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It is highly contagious and spread through coughing and sneezing. The disease begins with mild cold-like symptoms, then develops into a severe cough that can cause nausea and vomiting during a coughing fit. Some children may make a high-pitched “whooshing” sound after coughing, which is where the disease’s common name comes from. However, infants may not cough at all, and some teens and adults may not make a “whoosh” sound. Although vaccinated people may experience milder symptoms, they can still get and spread whooping cough. Whooping cough can cause serious complications, especially in infants, including pneumonia, fainting, seizures, respiratory arrest, and death. Half of infected infants require hospitalization. Infections during pregnancy can harm the fetus and cause complications in the newborn.

Infection occurs primarily through large respiratory droplets. Droplets are typically generated during close and prolonged interactions between individuals, such as people who live together or spend extended periods of time indoors.

To prevent the spread of whooping cough, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of medical-grade surgical masks. These masks effectively block the transmission of respiratory droplets, reducing the risk of transmitting the infection to others. Additionally, wearing a mask can also reduce an individual’s chance of contracting pertussis by providing a physical barrier against inhaling infectious droplets.

By following these guidelines and wearing appropriate protective equipment, individuals can reduce the spread of whooping cough in their communities and protect themselves and their loved ones from this potentially serious disease. Masu.

The most effective prevention against pertussis infection, transmission, and complications is regular vaccination.

We continue to encourage the public to contact their health care provider if they have the following symptoms or exposure:

1. Respiratory diseases accompanied by cough, such as:
   1. If the period exceeds 2 weeks
   2. A sudden violent explosion makes it impossible to breathe
   3. Includes gasping/gasping sounds during inspiration
   4. Nausea or vomiting after coughing
   5. It’s even worse at night
2. If respiratory symptoms occur after contact with a person with pertussis, they should be evaluated immediately by a health care provider. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the spread of the disease.
3. If you have known close contact with a family member or other person with pertussis, you should seek immediate medical attention. Close contacts may require prophylactic antibiotics to prevent the disease from developing.
4. Exposure to pertussis and high-risk conditions during age less than 1 year or during pregnancy require immediate medical evaluation and appropriate precautions. Infants and pregnant people are at increased risk of serious complications from whooping cough.