A small outbreak of lab-confirmed Pertussis or Whooping Cough is reported in Livingston County. The Livingingston County Health Center says one case has resulted in hospitalization.
Public health officials are working closely with healthcare providers, schools, and families to limit further spread. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by bacteria that attach to the airways, producing severe coughing fits. While anyone can contract pertussis, it can be especially dangerous for infants, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
Parents are urged to:
- Check their child’s vaccination records and ensure they are up to date.
- Monitor for early symptoms of pertussis, especially prolonged coughing.
- Keep children with cough symptoms home from school or daycare until evaluated by a healthcare provider.
- Contact their healthcare provider immediately if their child has severe coughing spells, trouble breathing, pauses in breathing, or vomiting after coughing.
Health Center Director Sherry Weldon says “Pertussis is preventable, but it can be very serious, especially for our youngest and most vulnerable residents.”
Weldon says they are encouraging families to review their vaccination status and seek care promptly if symptoms appear.