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Dear USET/USET SPF Family,
The USET Office of Tribal Public Health (OTPH) is committed to keeping USET member Tribal Nations informed with proactive information that is essential for protecting individual and Tribal Nation communities.
As we move into the respiratory season, we urge all Tribal communities to be aware of the increase in pertussis (whooping cough) cases across the United States. Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness, is on the rise after a period of lower transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, preliminary data indicates a significant uptick in cases, notably in New York, Virginia, and Florida, compared to the same time in 2023. Pertussis, caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, can affect individuals of all ages but is particularly dangerous for babies under one year of age who have not yet been vaccinated.
Key Facts about Pertussis:
- Symptoms: Initial symptoms resemble a common cold, including a runny nose and mild cough.
- After two weeks, the infection can develop into severe coughing fits. Coughing fits can last one to six weeks but can last up to 10 weeks. During the inhale after a coughing fit, patients make a high-pitched “whoop.”
- Other symptoms of later infection are vomiting, fatigue and potential apnea (life-threatening pauses in breathing).
- See your healthcare provider or seek immediate care if you and/or your child is cyanotic (turning blue), having difficulty breathing and/or are coughing violently.
- Transmission: Pertussis spreads through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected individual. The illness is highly contagious, and outbreaks can occur in schools, childcare centers, hospitals, and larger geographic areas.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis often involves a lab test using a nasal swab to detect the bacteria, along with medical history and symptoms.
Rise in Cases and Returning Trends:
As COVID-19 prevention measures like masking and remote learning eased, we are seeing a return to pre-pandemic patterns, with more than 10,000 cases of pertussis typically reported annually. Tribal communities should be especially vigilant, as outbreaks can occur suddenly and impact vulnerable populations, including young children and elders.
Importance of Vaccination:
Vaccination remains the best defense against pertussis. The DTaP and Tdap vaccines offer protection not only against pertussis but also tetanus and diphtheria. However, immunity from vaccination can wane over time, which is why staying up to date with boosters is crucial for protecting yourself and your community.
Protecting Your Community During Respiratory Season:
As we enter respiratory season, there are additional steps that can help reduce the spread of respiratory diseases, including whooping cough:
- Get vaccinated: Ensuring that you, your family, and community members are vaccinated against pertussis is key.
- Wash your hands frequently: Regular handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer can reduce the risk of spreading germs.
- Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your upper sleeve to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing to limit the spread of droplets.
- Stay home when sick: If you are feeling unwell, staying home helps protect others from potential exposure..
For additional information or for clinical guidance, please see the sources below. The USET TEC is available to assist with any questions or concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us at usetepi@usetinc.org.
Sources
Whooping Cough | Pertussis | Whooping Cough Symptoms | MedlinePlus
Whooping Cough Vaccination | Whooping Cough | CDC
About Whooping Cough Outbreaks | Whooping Cough | CDC
Influenza (Flu) | Health Topics (ihs.gov)
National Notifiable Infectious Diseases and Conditions (CDC)
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