Leah Androski
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
In 2024, there were 617 reported cases of whooping cough in Florida. The peak in whooping cough cases is caused by the decrease in individuals receiving the whooping cough vaccine.
Whooping cough or “pertussis” is a respiratory illness that can include symptoms of coughing until a person needs to inhale, which can cause the distinct “whooping” sound, fever, runny nose and nasal congestion. Babies younger than a year old and people with preexisting medical conditions are at a higher risk of receiving a severe case of whooping cough.
Pertussis can be spread through a person who currently has whooping cough, sneezing or coughing, which releases the pertussis bacteria into the air. To treat whooping cough, you will be given antibiotics. Healthcare officials recommend treating whopping cough early to ensure treatment is effective, and no hospital visits are needed. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends getting the whooping cough vaccine to prevent the spread of the virus. Anyone can get vaccinated at any point in their lives for whooping cough.
To receive the Tdap vaccine, check with your healthcare provider or visit your local pharmacy.