Lee County seeing an uptick in whooping cough

FORT MADISON - Lee County is seeing an increase in the number of pertussis (whooping cough) cases.  Pertussis is highly contagious and can be serious, even deadly for infants.  Lee County Health Department (LCHD) is urging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and our communities from this highly contagious respiratory illness.
Pertussis is caused by bacteria that spread easily through the air when an infected person coughs, breathes, or sneezes.  Early symptoms often resemble those of the common cold – including runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, mild fever, and a dry cough – making it difficult to detect in its initial stages.
Within two weeks, pertussis symptoms typically worsen, leading to severe coughing fits that can: make it difficult to breathe, be more intense at night, produce thick mucus, cause vomiting, and end with a distinctive “whooping” sound when inhaling (more common in children).
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent pertussis.  Infants should begin the pertussis-containing vaccine series at 2-months of age.  In Iowa, students entering 7^th grade are required to receive a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) booster.  Although not mandatory, the booster is also recommended for students in grades 8-12 who have not yet received it.  Adults ages 19 and older who have never received a Tdap vaccine are encouraged to get a single dose.

LCHD will be hosting an extended immunization clinic on Thursday, May 22 from 1:00pm-6:00pm at their offices in Fort Madison (#3 John Bennett Drive).  Walk-ins are welcome; however, appointments are encouraged.  If you would like to schedule an appointment or are unsure of your or your child’s vaccine status, please call the LCHD Immunization Nurse at 319-372-5225.
In addition to vaccination, the public is encouraged to follow everyday health practices to prevent the spread of pertussis and other illnesses.  Those include: wash hands frequently with soap and water, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and stay home when feeling unwell or keeping children home from school and activities when they are unwell.  If diagnosed with pertussis and showing symptoms, individuals should remain at home for 21 days, OR until they have completed five full days of recommended antibiotics by their provider.
Treatment for pertussis involves antibiotics, which help stop the infection and reduce its spread.  However, individuals may continue to experience a persistent cough for several weeks after starting treatment.
LCHD urges all residents to stay informed, practice prevention, and ensure vaccinations are up-to-date to protect the health of our community.