30 Oct 2024 | 10:17 AM UTC
US: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple states, especially Pennsylvania, in October /update 2
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple states in the US in October. Pennsylvania is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple states in the US, with an additional 3,961 cases reported Sept. 21-Oct.19, bringing the total case count to 19,622 since Jan. 1. This is approximately 4.5 times higher than the 4,358 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Pennsylvania (2,301 cases) is the most affected state, followed by New York (1,284 cases) and Illinois (1,276 cases). Health officials urge the public to ensure their pertussis vaccinations are up to date. This report represents the most complete data available as of Oct. 30.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against pertussis or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccination coverage in the US is estimated at 98 percent in 2023, above the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported roughly 5,611 pertussis cases nationwide in the US in 2023, 3,044 cases in 2022, 2,116 cases in 2021, and 6,124 cases in 2020.
Pertussis - also known as "whooping cough" - is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Symptoms typically appear 5-10 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms range from mild illness with low-grade fever and occasional coughing in the early stage, to vomiting, exhaustion, and severe fits of rapid coughing in the later stage. Infants and children up to 4 years old are at highest risk and typically suffer the most severe symptoms.
