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The Importance of Getting Vaccinated Against Whooping Cough

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Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that has seen an alarming resurgence recently. Cases of this disease in the United States have risen dramatically; tragically, two infants in Louisiana have died of the disease this year.

This is a stark reminder that even diseases widely regarded as under control can rebound, posing a significant public health threat in our communities — especially to the youngest and most vulnerable. Whooping cough is a vaccine-preventable disease, so receiving an immunization is the best way to prevent further spread.

 

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The illness typically starts with mild, cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. After one to two weeks, the most serious symptom emerges: severe, rapid coughing fits that produce a high-pitched “whoop” sound as the person struggles to breathe. 

This disease is particularly dangerous to infants and young children. Since their airways are smaller, coughing fits can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, apnea (dangerous pauses in breathing), seizures, and even brain damage or death.

Whooping caught can persist for several weeks or even months, earning it the nickname “the 100-day cough.” Even when the intense coughing subsides, individuals can remain contagious for several weeks and potentially spread the disease to others.

 

The Importance of Vaccination

To protect against whooping cough, it is recommended that children receive either a DTaP or Tdap immunization. These are combination vaccines that also provide protection against diphtheria and tetanus. By exposing the body to harmless components of the pertussis bacteria, the vaccine helps the body develop antibodies to recognize and fight the bacteria if someone is exposed to it.

DTaP vaccines are given to children under the age of seven. They are administered as a series of four doses, starting at two months old and lasting until 15-18 months old. A booster dose is given between the age of four and six. 

 

Booster Shots

The effectiveness of childhood DTaP vaccines wanes over time, though they still guard against serious illness caused by whooping cough. Tdap is a vaccine given to older children and adults who have not previously been vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control recommend that adults receive a Tdap dose if they have not been vaccinated against whooping cough, and that they get a booster every 10 years.

Booster shots are also recommended for adults who will be in close contact with infants, who are more vulnerable to whooping cough. Pregnant women are strongly advised to receive a dose of Tdap during their pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks gestation, to pass protective antibodies on to their newborns.

Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your whooping cough vaccinations.

Learn more about the Uncas Health District’s immunization work here.

The Role of Infant Immunizations in Fighting Preventable Diseases

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When parents welcome a new baby into their lives, they know they are in for a whirlwind of new responsibilities — especially when it comes to keeping a child safe and healthy. One of the most effective ways they can do so is keeping up with a recommended schedule of early childhood immunizations.

National Infant Immunization Week, which this year is observed from April 21st to 28th, is an important reminder of the critical role vaccines play in safeguarding the health of infants and young children. Immunizations not only protect these children from preventable diseases, but also improve the overall health of our communities.

 

What Immunizations Are Recommended for Children Under Two? 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have established a comprehensive immunization schedule designed to protect infants and toddlers from a range of serious illnesses. These vaccines are carefully timed to provide protection when babies are most vulnerable to these diseases.

Generally, children under the age of two are recommended to receive vaccines against the following diseases:

  • Hepatitis B (HepB): Usually given at birth, with subsequent doses by 6-18 months.
  • Rotavirus (RV): Given as early as six weeks old, with an additional one or two doses (depending on the brand) completed by eight months. 
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): A series of four doses given at two months, four months, six months, and 15-18 months.
  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): Given as early as two months and completed by 12-15 months using a series of 3-4 doses 
  • Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13):  A series of four doses given at two, four, six, and 12-15 months.
  • Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV): A series of four doses given at two months, four months, and 6-18 months, with a final dose given between the age of 4 and 6. 
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): The first dose is typically given at 12-15 months (a second dose is typically given between the age of 4 and 6).
  • Varicella (Chickenpox): The first dose is typically given at 12-15 months (a second dose is typically given between the age of 4 and 6).
  • Hepatitis A (HepA): This vaccine is typically given as two doses, at least six months apart, between 12 and 23 months
  • Influenza (Flu): An annual vaccine is recommended for all children, starting at 6 months.

Parents should work with their pediatrician to ensure that they follow this recommended schedule, which offers timely protection against these potentially life-threatening illnesses.

 

Early Protection: Why Vaccinate So Young?

Administering vaccines to infants and young children provides critical protection when they are most vulnerable to severe complications from these diseases. Since their immune systems are still developing, they may not be strong enough to fight off these infections effectively on their own. For example:

  • Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications in young, unvaccinated children, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and death.
  • Pertussis (whooping cough) can be particularly dangerous for newborns, causing severe coughing fits that can lead to difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and death. 
  • Hib disease can cause serious infections like meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) and epiglottitis (swelling of the windpipe), especially in young children.

Vaccinating on schedule builds immunity before a child is exposed to these diseases, which in turn helps prevent serious illness, hospitalizations, and long-term disabilities. Furthermore, high vaccination rates within a community create “herd immunity,” which indirectly protects vulnerable individuals who cannot be vaccinated, such as newborns too young to receive certain vaccines or those with weakened immune systems.

 

Addressing Concerns

It’s understandable that parents may have concerns about vaccinating their young children. They may worry that the frequency of the injections and the mild side effects they sometimes bring will cause a child discomfort, and may want to wait until a child is older to vaccinate them.

It’s important to remember that early immunization offers substantial protection against preventable diseases. Any discomfort will only be temporary, and a child will suffer much greater distress if they contract one of these diseases.

Parents sometimes believe that it is preferable to allow a child to develop natural immunity to a disease, by catching it and recovering from it. However, vaccines allow a child to develop this immunity without the prolonged suffering a disease can cause. They also avoid the serious and life-threatening consequences that can occur as a result of contracting these diseases, including long-term health effects.

Unfortunately, misinformation about vaccines has circulated freely online in recent years, including the common misconception that vaccines can cause children to develop autism. This idea has been debunked by numerous scientific studies, and all vaccines recommended for young children undergo extensive testing and review by scientists, doctors, and the federal government (including the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) to ensure their safety and efficacy. 

 

Vaccinating your child is one of the most important steps you can take to protect their health and the health of our community. By following the recommended immunization schedule, you are giving your child the best possible defense against preventable diseases.

Learn more about the Uncas Health District’s immunization work here.

Whooping Cough Cases on the Rise in Connecticut: What You Need to Know

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young boy coughing

Connecticut is currently experiencing a spike in cases of whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease also known as pertussis. This increase is a reminder of the importance of vaccination and protecting our families and communities from preventable diseases.

Understanding Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, but it can affect individuals of all ages.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Initial Stage (Catarrhal Phase): Symptoms resemble a common cold, with a runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, and low-grade fever.
  • Progressive Stage (Paroxysmal Phase): The hallmark of whooping cough is a severe, persistent cough that comes in fits or paroxysms. During these coughing spells, individuals may experience difficulty breathing, vomiting, and exhaustion. The “whooping” sound occurs when the person inhales deeply after a coughing fit.
  • Recovery Stage (Convalescent Phase): The cough gradually lessens over several weeks but can persist for months.

The Dangers of Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is not just a nuisance; it can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and those with weakened immune systems. These complications include:

  • Pneumonia: A common and potentially life-threatening secondary infection.
  • Apnea: In infants, the disease can cause pauses in breathing.
  • Seizures and Brain Damage: Due to the lack of oxygen during prolonged coughing fits.
  • Death: Infants under six months are at the highest risk, with fatalities occurring in severe cases.

The Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent whooping cough. The DTaP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, is recommended for infants and children, with booster doses (Tdap) for adolescents and adults. Pregnant women are also advised to receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their newborns.

Despite the availability of vaccines, the recent rise in whooping cough cases suggests that some families may not be up-to-date on their vaccinations. This is particularly concerning as unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals contribute to the spread of the disease.

What You Can Do

To protect yourself and your loved ones, consider the following steps:

  • Check Vaccination Status: Ensure that everyone in your household is up-to-date with their DTaP and Tdap vaccines. If you’re unsure, access your vaccination record with CT WiZ.
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with local health advisories and be aware of any outbreaks in your community.

The spike in whooping cough cases in Connecticut is a serious public health concern. By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the risks, and ensuring that your family is vaccinated, you can help protect your community from this preventable disease. Don’t wait—take action today to safeguard your health and the health of those around you.