Health Advisory: Potential Pertussis Cluster in the Community

Article presented by Pike County Career & Technology Center…

“The Highland County Health Department has confirmed four (4) cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, within the community since February 2026. Of the confirmed cases, three individuals were unvaccinated and one individual’s vaccination status remains unknown at this time. One of the cases has required hospitalization.

The Health Department is sharing this information so that parents and families have the facts they need to make informed decisions about protecting their health and the health of their loved ones.

What Is Pertussis?
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person. Pertussis can affect people of any age but can be especially serious for infants, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Signs and Symptoms
Pertussis often begins with symptoms that resemble a common cold, which can make it difficult to recognize in its early stages. Parents and caregivers should watch for the following:

Early symptoms (first 1–2 weeks):

• Runny nose
• Low-grade fever
• Mild, occasional cough
• Sneezing
  

Later symptoms (as the illness progresses):

• Severe, prolonged coughing fits that may last for weeks
• A high-pitched “whoop” sound when gasping for air after coughing (more common in children)
• Vomiting during or after coughing fits
• Exhaustion following coughing episodes
• Difficulty breathing, especially in infants
  

In very young infants, pertussis may not cause a typical cough at all. Instead, babies may experience pauses in breathing (apnea), which can be a medical emergency. If your child shows any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

Stay Home When Sick
The Highland County Health Department reminds all community members of the importance of staying home when you or your child is sick. Keeping sick individuals home from school, work, daycare, and public gatherings is one of the most effective steps you can take to prevent the spread of pertussis and other contagious illnesses. If you or a family member develops a persistent cough or symptoms consistent with pertussis, please contact your healthcare provider for evaluation and remain home until you have been assessed and, if necessary, have begun appropriate treatment.

Information for Parents and Families
The Highland County Health Department understands that parents want to make the best decisions for their families. We believe that providing clear, accurate information is the best way to support families in doing so. Here are some key facts to be aware of:

• Pertussis is highly contagious and can circulate in schools, daycares, and households.
• Infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated are at the greatest risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications.
• Close contacts of a confirmed case may be advised to receive preventive antibiotics, regardless of vaccination status.
• If your child has a cough lasting more than one to two weeks, especially with severe coughing fits, consider having them evaluated for pertussis.
  

About the DTaP Vaccine
The DTaP vaccine protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). It is part of the recommended childhood immunization schedule and is typically administered in a series of five doses at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15–18 months, and 4–6 years of age.

Effectiveness:
Studies show that the DTaP vaccine is highly effective at preventing pertussis in the years following vaccination. After the full five-dose series, the vaccine is approximately 98% effective in the first year. While protection can gradually decrease over time, vaccinated individuals who do contract pertussis generally experience milder symptoms than those who are unvaccinated.

Safety:
The DTaP vaccine has a strong safety record and has been extensively studied. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, including soreness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, fussiness, and fatigue. Serious side effects are very rare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both recommend the DTaP vaccine as a safe and effective tool for protecting children against pertussis.

Tdap for Older Children and Adults:
A booster vaccine called Tdap is recommended for adolescents (typically at age 11–12) and adults, including pregnant women during each pregnancy, to help maintain protection and reduce the risk of spreading pertussis to vulnerable infants.

Vaccination Available at the Health Department
Both the DTaP and Tdap vaccine is available at any time at the Highland County Health Department. No appointment is necessary. If you have questions about whether your child is up to date on vaccinations, or if you would like more information about these vaccines, please contact our office. Our staff is available to answer your questions and help you access the information you need to make the best decision for your family.”

Jared Warner, MEM, REHS
Highland County Health Commissioner