Pertussis cases increase in region
SANDPOINT — After sitting out several winter seasons in North Idaho, pertussis — more commonly known as whooping cough — is making a comeback.
A common autumn and winter disease, pertussis is highly contagious, and while symptoms are generally mild, it can cause individuals to miss several days of school or work. Before 2010, reported cases were very infrequent, but according to Cynthia Taggart of Panhandle Health District, they’re seeing more and more each year. Where in 2009 there were only six reported cases in the five North Idaho counties, there are already 36 confirmed cases this year — six of which have occurred in Bonner County.
“(Petussis) has been talked about nationwide lately,” Taggart said. “It’s just particularly prevalent out there right now.”
Only time will tell whether this will be an especially bad year for pertussis, Taggart said. Seventy-four cases throughout North Idaho were reported in 2010, followed by 100 in 2011. The number of cases declined significantly last year with 37 total. However, Taggart said this year’s diagnoses are already nearing that figure, and historically, the worst is yet to come. In 2011, only 31 cases had been reported by the end of September, but the year ended with 100 in total.
North Idaho isn’t the only region where pertussis is making a comeback, Taggart said. Several cities have had particularly intense outbreaks in recent years, particularly Northwestern population centers like Seattle.
According to Taggart, there isn’t any easy single factor that explains the resurgence of pertussis. Any number of conditions, including temperature and vaccination rates in the community, could play a role in the severity of the season. This is consistent with past trends, where pertussis diagnoses shrink to inconsequential numbers before making a resurgence, Taggart said.
“Generally, it just comes and goes,” she added.
Petussis usually begins with a simple runny nose before the signature wheezing cough begins. However, people are contagious before any coughing begins and remain contagious for up to three weeks. Symptoms are usually relatively mild and can be easily treated with doctor-prescribed antibiotics. However, if left untreated, it can develop into pneumonia, seizures and encephalitis. It’s especially dangerous for kids less than a year old — an infant fatality in Seattle late last year was connected to pertussis.
“People who have severe coughing spells that don’t improve or go away within two weeks should consider that they may have pertussis and seek medical attention,” said Mary Petty, PHD community services program manager.
The best way to avoid contracting pertussis is to seek out vaccinations. A series of immunizations are available for kids from 2 months to 6 years old, followed by a booster for anyone age 11 and older. Unfortunately, the vaccinations aren’t a sure bet at 60 percent effectiveness, Taggart said. However, it’s still the best first line of defense, and cases of pertussis are usually much more mild in individuals with vaccinations, she added.
Information: Bonner County Panhandle Health District, 263-5159