Pertussis: Not just a childhood disease

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Nigesa Scales
  • 374th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Public Health
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Pertussis, also known as "Whooping Cough," can affect both children and adults. The disease can be life threatening to young children; however it is often adults who unknowingly spread this common but preventable respiratory disease.

According to the Center for Disease Control, from 2004-2009, 121 deaths were reported in the U.S. Of that 91 percent or 110 deaths were infants under the age of 3 months.

These statistics have sparked multimedia campaigns to increase awareness of the disease and available vaccines. There have been a few reported cases in the local Kanto Plains area. Below are some common symptoms of Pertussis, vaccination information and ways you can prevent the spread of the disease.

Pertussis is spread from person-to-person. Symptoms include: persistent "whooping" cough that worsens at night, decreased appetite, pause in breathing, runny/stuffed nose and sneezing.

Symptoms are often seen in young children; however adults rarely show visible signs of the disease. The CDC and World Health Organization urge both children and adults to get vaccinated according to the following immunization schedule:

- Children: Should receive five doses of DTap at age 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15 to 18 months and 4 to 6 years old.

- Adolescents/Adults (age 11 to 64): Should receive a single dose Tdap.

- Adults 65 and older: Who are in close contact with children and have not received Tdap should receive a single dose.

Some ways to protect yourself and children include:

- Keep newborns away from individuals with cold symptoms or a cough
- Vaccinate your child on time.
- Make sure older siblings, adults and caregivers receive the recommend dose of Tdap.
- Keep a record.
- Ensure all immunizations are up-to-date.

Consult with your Primary Care Manager, the Immunizations Clinic at 225-8801, or Public Health at 225-5311; if you have any questions or concerns regarding this safe and effective vaccine.