7 Cases of Pertussis Confirmed for Prowers County

Lamar, CO– Prowers County Public Health officials have received lab confirmation of seven (7) pertussis cases in Lamar, Colorado.

Pertussis, a respiratory illness commonly known as “whooping cough” or“100 day cough”, is a very contagious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. This disease is spread from person to person usually spread by coughing or sneezing while in close contact with others, who then breathe in the pertussis bacteria. Many infants who get pertussis are infected by older siblings, parents or caregivers who might not even know they have the disease.

Symptoms of pertussis usually develop within 7–10 days after being exposed, but sometimes not for as long as 6 weeks. Early symptoms usually start with cold-like symptoms and maybe a mild cough or fever. The best way to know is to contact your health care provider.

Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease. Due to the outbreak, Prowers County Public Health and Environment is advising parents to check their child’s immunization record to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations for pertussis. All adults are also advised to obtain the vaccination if they have not had the vaccination. Residents are advised to check with their health care provider or call the health department if they are uncertain about their vaccination status.

For more information you can call Prowers County Public Health and Environment at 336-8721 or you can visit www.prowerscounty.net CDC website http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/