Whooping Cough Outbreaks in Evanston, IL

Evanston, IL-11/13/2008-- Five confirmed cases of Pertussis, also known as Whooping Cough, have been confirmed by health officials in North Evanston. The five confirmed cases of Whooping Cough have all affected children and two more cases are suspected.

We recommend that adolescents especially get booster shots, as well as mothers that have just been given birth,” said Dr. Stephen Schrantz, a pediatrician and infectious disease specialist with NorthShore University HealthSystem, earlier today on an interview with a local news channel. “[They can get] a booster shot for Pertussis so that they can prevent this disease from occurring in the young children who are the most vulnerable.

Pertussis is a highly infectious disease that is easily transmitted through coughing and sneezing. Although it typically affects young children, adults and adolescents can carry the bacteria and spread the disease. “We are urging that adolescents, women who just gave birth or thinking about becoming pregnant, and those who are in contact with these populations to be vaccinated,” said Fran Lessans, CEO of Passport Health, the largest provider of travel medical services and vaccinations in the United States. “There have been five confirmed cases so this is officially an outbreak.

The Whooping Cough kills close to 300,000 humans every year. It is transmitted by direct contact with airborne discharges from infected persons. Most fatalities occur in the new born population and infants. “Patients with respiratory Pertussis require hospitalization, immediate treatment with Pertussis antitoxin, appropriate antibiotics, and supportive care,” added Lessans. “There is a very effective vaccination against Pertussis and it also protects you against Diphtheria and Tetanus.”

Symptoms usually appear 5 to 10 days following exposure and can last up to 21 days. The cough has a distinctive "whooping" sound in children and it may progress to vomiting. Sufferers may first experience cold-like symptoms followed by a very pronounced cough that can last for many weeks.