Ada County is experiencing an outbreak of whooping cough cases with 275 reported as of Nov. 12. Here’s what to know:
What is whooping cough?
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It causes severe coughing fits that often end in a high-pitched whoop. People may experience complications like pneumonia, seizures or even brain damage. Infants and those with pre-existing health conditions that may be worsened by whooping cough (e.g. immunocompromising conditions and moderate to severe medically treated asthma) are at high risk for developing a severe infection.
Symptoms to watch for
Symptoms include uncontrollable coughing fits, runny nose, low-grade fever and apnea (temporary cessation of breathing).
Why get vaccinated?
Because whooping cough starts with mild, cold-like symptoms, many people don’t know they have the infection immediately. Pertussis spreads easily, with the bacteria traveling on droplets of saliva when a person who is infected talks, coughs or sneezes. The whooping cough vaccine is the best way to protect one’s self and loved ones. Here’s why:
- Highly effective: Vaccination significantly reduces the chances of getting whooping cough.
- Protects others: Vaccination helps prevent the spread of whooping cough to infants and people with weakened immune systems who may be more susceptible to complications.
- Long-term protection: The Tdap vaccine protects against whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria for up to 10 years.
Who should get vaccinated?
Everyone should get vaccinated against whooping cough. Here’s the recommended schedule:
- Babies and young children: DTaP vaccine series (five shots)
- Preteens and teens (ages 11-12): Tdap vaccine
- Adults: Tdap booster shot every 10 years
Boise State Public Health can help
Public Health offers the following:
- Whooping cough testing: Call (208) 426-1523 to set up an appointment.
- Tdap vaccinations (along with flu, infant RSV and COVID vaccines): Every Thursday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. No appointment is needed. Visit the Public Health website for current pop-up locations.