Media Release

PERTUSSIS

(Whooping Cough)

IS IN THE NEWS!

Recent news reports have mentioned cases of Pertussis, or whooping cough, in the metro region, and Broomfield’s Health Division is asking residents to be aware and proactive about this disease.

Pertussis is a bacterial infection spread when an infected individual coughs or sneezes around others thereby transmitting the bacteria exposing others to the disease.  Symptoms are similar to a cold-like illness (runny nose, mild cough, low-grade fever) progressing into severe coughing episodes.  Coughing bouts may be severe and may last for several weeks. 

If residents see these symptoms in a family member, Broomfield’s Health Division urges families to take preventative measures and to contact their family physician to avoid a spread of the disease. Pertussis can be treated with antibiotics.

Pertussis is more severe for infants and young children, especially those who have not received three does of vaccine, and may result in hospitalization, seizures, neurological problems, and, rarely, death.  Even youngsters who have received immunizations may be affected.  The immunity obtained from the vaccine administered to young children can wane, as children get older.

For more information, contact the Health Division at 720-887-2220.