N  E  W  S      R  E  L  E  A  S  E  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 20, 2010

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Cases
Continue to Rise in El Dorado County
VaccinationStrongly Encouraged to Prevent Further Spread
 

            El DoradoCountyhealth officials continue to see an increase in local cases of pertussis (also known as whooping cough) and are strongly encouraging vaccination to prevent further spread.  In El Dorado County, there have been 23 reported cases of pertussis since the beginning of this year, compared to only three cases last year.  Pertussis is a contagious respiratory infection that can lead to severe coughing fits and be fatal to babies.

            Pertussis has reached epidemic proportions in California, with 1,496 confirmed cases so far this year, 700 additional cases under investigation and six deaths.  The deaths were all among babies under three months of age.  Pertussis is particularly dangerous for unimmunized and incompletely immunized infants.

            “We are urging parents of young children, childcare providers, and anyone who works with or has regular contact with children to be vaccinated against pertussis,” said El Dorado County Health Officer, Dr. Olivia Kasirye. The pertussis booster shot, called Tdap, protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, and is administered in one dose.  

            The California Department of Public Health is now recommending that the Tdap vaccine be given to individuals who are seven years and older who are not fully immunized (including people over the age of 64).  Women of child bearing age, pregnant women and people who have contact with pregnant women and infants are also especially encouraged to be vaccinated against pertussis. The vaccine is available from most health care providers.

            The pertussis vaccine for young children (licensed for children ages six and under), called DTaP, is given through a series of five shots, typically at two, four, six and 15-18 months of age, with a booster dose at kindergarten entry.  “Children who complete the series of vaccinations are well protected,” said Dr. Kasirye. “Babies aren’t protected until they have received their first three doses.  Parents should check their child’s immunization records or contact their child’s doctor to see if their child is current on their vaccinations.” 

            Symptoms of pertussis typically start with a cough and runny nose for one to two weeks, followed by weeks to months of rapid coughing fits that sometimes end with a whooping sound.  Fever is rare.
            The El Dorado County Health Services Department, Public Health Division is now offering low-cost vaccination against pertussis for children, as well as for adults who are caregivers of infants or who regularly work with children.  To schedule a vaccination appointment, call (530) 621-6100 in Placerville or (530) 573-3155 in South Lake Tahoe.  For more information about the Health Services Department, visit www.edcgov.us/publichealth.

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