Pertussis, a respiratory illness commonly known as "whooping
cough" or"100 day cough", is a very contagious disease caused by
a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. This disease is
spread from person to person usually spread by coughing or
sneezing while in close contact with others, who then breathe in
the pertussis bacteria. Many infants who get pertussis are
infected by older siblings, parents or caregivers who might not
even know they have the disease. Symptoms of pertussis usually
develop within seven to ten days after being exposed, but
sometimes not for as long as 6 weeks. Early symptoms usually
start with cold-like symptoms and maybe a mild cough or fever.
The best way to know is to contact your health care provider.
Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease. Due to the outbreak,
Prowers County Public Health and Environment is advising parents
to check their child's immunization record to ensure they are up
to date with their vaccinations for pertussis. All adults are
also advised to obtain