The Allegheny County Health Department is urging testing, treatment and vaccination for pertussis as a growing number of cases are being reported.
From Jan. 1 through Nov. 30 this year there were 140 confirmed cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough. That’s compared to the average of 66 reported cases in the same time period over the last ten years.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory disease that can cause prolonged coughing and can make it hard to breathe. Though it can affect anyone from babies to the elderly, more than half of the cases seen this year are in those between the ages of 14 and 17. No deaths have been reported.
The disease can be fatal in babies younger than a year old. It can also be dangerous for any child or adult with weakened immune systems.
Health officials say a pertussis vaccination for infants, young children, adolescents and adults is the best way to protect against it. Those who are around infants, such as caregivers, are encouraged to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Pregnant women should be vaccinated during the third trimester.
