State Alerts Public to "Whooping Cough" in Cook County
Increase in “Whooping Cough” cases concentrated in Cook, Collar Counties; Health officials urge protection for infants, young children
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is alerting the public to a marked increase of pertussis cases (also known as “Whooping Cough”) due to a series of outbreaks primarily concentrated in Cook County and the surrounding collar counties of Chicago. As of today, 1,149 cases have been reported statewide. Of those cases, the majority have been reported in McHenry (227), DuPage (217), Cook (275) and Lake (112) Counties.
Although pertussis can affect any age group, infants – especially those too young to be vaccinated – are at especially high risk for contracting the disease. Therefore, Evanston Health Department Director Evonda Thomas is strongly encouraging parents, other family members, caregivers and all who come in close contact with young infants to be vaccinated against pertussis.
Pertussis is spread to others through direct contact with bacteria from nasal and throat discharges from coughing and sneezing. Symptoms usually occur 5 to 10 days after exposure, but can take as long as 21 days. The first symptoms are similar to those of a common cold - a runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever and a mild, occasional cough. The cough gradually becomes severe and, after one to two weeks, the patient has spasmodic bursts of numerous, rapid coughs. The characteristic high-pitched "whoop," which is more common in children, comes from breathing in after a coughing episode.
Pregnant women may be vaccinated against pertussis before or during pregnancy, or after giving birth. Fathers may be vaccinated at any time, but preferably before the birth of their baby.
Others who may have contact with infants, including family members, healthcare workers, and childcare workers, should also be vaccinated, preferably at least two weeks before beginning close contact with the infant.
Evanston Health Department is urging all who have been in close contact to a person with confirmed or suspected pertussis to seek medical attention immediately for possible antibiotic treatment; even if they have recently been vaccinated against pertussis. Over-the-counter medication is ineffective in treating the disease.
If the illness is confirmed by a medical provider, health officials recommend staying home from work or school during the first five days of treatment. DirectorThomas also recommends frequent hand-washing and good respiratory hygiene (covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue; disposing of soiled tissues) to prevent further spread of pertussis.
Pertussis outbreaks are cyclical, with a dramatic spike in reported cases occurring every 4-5 years. The 1,149 reported pertussis cases so far for 2011 have already surpassed the total 648 cases from 2009. For more information, please visit www.cityofevanston.org or http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbpertus.htm.