Louisiana Officials Reporting A Huge Spike In Whooping Cough Cases

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA: As 2024 draws to a close, the Louisiana Department of Health is reporting a dramatic rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases.

According to the LA Dept. of Health, whooping cough cases have octupled since 2023 according to the report. According to the CDC, whooping cough cases around the country are up over six times that of 2023.

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Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It often begins with cold-like symptoms and progresses to severe coughing fits that may cause vomiting or the characteristic "whooping" sound that occurs when air is inhaled during the coughing fits.

Those who have never received a vaccination, pregnant women, and very small children are the most vulnerable. The DTaP and Tdap vaccines are still the most effective means of preventing the illness, according to CDC. However, they also state that because the vaccine loses its effectiveness over time, even people who have had the whooping cough vaccination may still get the illness.

Symptoms of whooping cough may include:

• Coughing, violently and rapidly, until all the air has left the lungs and a person is forced to inhale, causing a "whooping" sound
• Vomiting
• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• Fever
• Sore, watery eyes
• Lips, tongue, and nailbeds may turn blue during coughing spells

If you or someone you know has the symptoms of whooping cough; self isolate and call your medical provider for testing and treatment.

Treatment will include rounds of antibiotics. The CDC advises that anyone that contracts whooping cough stay out of the public (work and school) for at least five days after being put on the appropriate antibiotic regiment from your doctor.