The Garrett County Health Department (GCHD) today confirmed the third case of Pertussis in less than a month, commonly known as whooping cough. Public health officials continue to actively investigate the cases and are working to identify and notify close contacts to prevent further spread of this highly contagious bacterial respiratory illness.
The GCHD is urging all residents, especially those in close contact with infants or young children, to review their vaccination status and be aware of the symptoms of pertussis.
About Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis is a serious and highly contagious infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is spread easily from person-to-person through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
While typically milder in vaccinated adolescents and adults, pertussis can be life-threatening for infants and young children who are not yet fully immunized.
The incubation period for pertussis—the time from exposure to the onset of symptoms—is typically 7 to 10 days, but can range from 4 to 21 days. Close contacts who develop any cold-like symptoms within this window should notify your healthcare provider immediately.
“Pertussis initially looks like a common cold, with a runny nose, mild fever, and a slight cough,” explains Jessica Carey, MSN Ed., CRNP, Director of Personal Health at the GCHD. “After a week or two the cough progresses to uncontrolled coughing. The coughing can make breathing difficult, often resulting in the characteristic ‘whoop’ sound when trying to inhale, or causing vomiting and exhaustion.”
The illness is known as the “100-day cough” because the cough is persistent, lasting for weeks or even months.
The Critical Role of Vaccination
The best way to protect against pertussis is through vaccination. The protection provided by the childhood vaccine (DTaP) fades over time, which is why booster shots are critical for older children and adults.
“It’s important for everyone to stay up-to-date on their pertussis vaccine,” Jessica Carey stresses. “For children, this means completing the DTaP series and getting the Tdap booster shot around age 11 or 12. For adults, Tdap is generally recommended every ten years.
“The Tdap vaccine is also recommended for pregnant individuals during the early part of the third trimester of each pregnancy,” said Carey.
Action Steps for Garrett County Residents
- Review Vaccination Records: Check your and your family’s vaccination status. If you or your children (especially pre-teens and pregnant individuals) are not up-to-date on the Tdap vaccine, contact your healthcare provider or the Health Department.
- Monitor for Symptoms: If you or a family member develops cold-like symptoms followed by severe, prolonged, or worsening coughing fits, seek medical attention immediately.
- Prevent Spread: Anyone diagnosed with pertussis should stay home from school, work, or public places until they have completed at least 5 days of appropriate antibiotic treatment (or 3 weeks after the cough starts if untreated).
- Practice Good Hygiene: Cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
The Garrett County Health Department’s Personal Health Unit offers pertussis vaccination (Tdap) and testing.
Contact Information
For questions regarding pertussis, vaccinations, or potential exposure, please contact the Garrett County Health Department’s Personal Health Unit at:
Phone: 301-334-7770
Email: gchd.personalhealth@maryland.gov
Online: Visit GarrettHealth.org
