County Health Officials Warn Of Pertussis Outbreak

Cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, have been on the rise in Barnstable County, according to an advisory from the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment. As of Dec. 18, 26 cases have been reported with one hospitalization of a young child. 

Reported numbers haven’t been this high since 2014, when 42 cases were documented throughout the county. 

“Nationally, pertussis cases are six-times higher than last year, with the largest number of cases in adolescents,” said Lea Hamner, a contact epidemiologist for the county. “Pertussis can be life threatening for young infants.” 

Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that causes respiratory distress and is highly contagious. The early symptoms resemble a common cold, “starting with a persistent runny nose and sneezing, low-grade fever, sore throat, and a mild occasional cough that can worsen into coughing fits after one to two weeks,” according to the county advisory. 

The coughing can manifest into more severe fits causing patients to vomit and discolor, turning red or blue, depending on the severity.

While the illness can spread to anyone, children from birth to 19 are most commonly affected. 

If it’s suspected that someone has contracted whooping cough, the health department recommends that residents get tested and start a course of antibiotics to help mitigate the symptoms. It is recommended that anyone with the illness remain at home during the five-day antibiotic treatment since the illness is still contagious. After antibiotics have been fully administered, patients will not be contagious and can resume normal, everyday activities. 

There are preventable measures that can be taken to overcome the spread of the disease. Vaccinations are readily available and are the best form of protection, so staying up to date is important, according to the county. 

“We urge Outer Cape residents to be vigilant and take preventive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones especially during the holiday season,” said Gretchen Eckel, associate medical director of population health at Outer Cape Health Services.

For additional resources and more information, residents can visit the county’s website capecod.gov/departments/health-environment/programs-services/public-health/pertussis/ or call 774-330-3001.