KOOTENAI COUNTY, Idaho -- Whooping cough is on the rise throughout Kootenai County, according to The Panhandle Health District (PHD).Â
Whooping cough is a very contagious illness, that can often cause symptoms like runny or stuffy nose, low grade fevers, mild cough or apnea (life-threatening pauses in breathing) and cyanosis (turning blue or purple) in young children and babies, according to PHD Epidemiologist Rebecca Betz.Â
Between 2021 and 2023, there were nine confirmed cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, in North Idaho. So far, in 2024, there have been 19 confirmed cases, according to PHD.Â
The majority of cases are amongst those 0-18 years old.Â
Whooping cough can also cause more serious symptoms like violent coughing fits, difficulty breathing and vomiting.Â
While it is serious in all cases, whooping cough is most dangerous to babies.Â
One in eight babies who get whooping cough also get pneumonia. In rare cases, babies with whooping cough can also experience convulsions or be at risk of death.Â
Many babies are infected by older siblings or parents who don't know they have whooping cough because their symptoms are mild.Â
When diagnosed, whooping cough can be treated with antibiotics.Â
PHD suggests the following to help protect yourself and your family:Â
If you or someone you live with are at increased risk of serious illness and have been exposed to whooping cough, ask your doctor about preventative antibiotics.Â
Ask your doctor about being vaccinated against whooping cough. The vaccine is widely available in many doctors offices and health clinics.Â
For more information on whooping cough and how to stay safe, visit the CDC's website. Â
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