Wellness Wednesday: Whooping Cough Cases On The Rise; Best Ways To Prevent & Treat It

We are entering the cold and flu season, but doctors say there's another respiratory illness that's on the rise.

Experts say whooping cough cases are spreading. Doctor Theresa Horton from Utica Park Clinic Owasso joined News On 6 to explain why that is, and what we can do to stop it.

Related Story: Bartlesville Public Schools Impacted By Several Cases Of Whooping Cough

The Resurgence of Whooping Cough Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, has always been present, but it tends to come in waves. Dr. Horton explains that we're currently experiencing a bigger surge than we've seen in a long time.

"Partly because vaccination levels are lower, and probably also because of a period of time during COVID when people were separating, then fewer people got sick, and now their immune systems weren't used to it, and so now it's taking advantage of the situation, and it's back on the rise," Horton said.

The Dangers for Young Children

While whooping cough can affect people of all ages, Dr. Horton emphasizes that young children, especially those under one year old, are at the greatest risk.

"Their airways are much softer, so the inflammation in the airways can be life-threatening. They can also have serious complications with seizures or brain damage as well," she said.

Recognizing the Symptoms

In the beginning, whooping cough can mimic a common cold, with symptoms like cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and low-grade fever. But after about 5-7 days, the distinctive "whooping" cough develops.

"Some people will just have a very sharp cough, and it's what we call paroxysmal, it's over and over and over, and it's hard to catch your breath. In smaller children, especially with the small airways, then when trying to catch their breath, they'll breathe in and they have a very distinctive kind of whoop, and that's where the name comes from," said Horton.

Seeking Medical Attention

If parents notice a very sharp, persistent cough in their child, especially if it's causing vomiting, Dr. Horton advises seeking medical care right away.

"In adults or older children, you may not get the whoop, but the cough can be so bad it can crack ribs," she said.

Preventing Whooping Cough

The good news is that there is a vaccine available to protect against whooping cough. The standard vaccine schedule includes doses at 2, 4, and 6 months, followed by a booster after 1 year and again at 11-12 years old. Dr. Horton also recommends that pregnant women get vaccinated to pass on immunity to their unborn children.

For older children, the Tdap vaccine, which includes the pertussis component, is required for 7th grade in many areas. Parents should ensure their children are up-to-date on this important vaccination. By staying vigilant and following the recommended vaccine schedule, families can help prevent the spread of this potentially dangerous respiratory illness.