California Faces Whooping Cough Outbreak as Nationwide Cases Surge
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — California is currently grappling with a significant outbreak of whooping cough, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a nationwide surge in cases.
The rise in whooping cough poses serious concerns for vulnerable populations, particularly infants and the elderly. This bacterial disease spreads through aerosol droplets that can remain viable on clothing and surfaces for up to five days. Initially, its symptoms mimic those of a common cold before developing into severe coughing fits lasting weeks.
The most alarming sound associated with this illness is that of young children gasping for breath, as they are particularly susceptible to the infection.
Common symptoms include a distinct cough that produces a “whoop” sound, along with a runny nose and nasal congestion. Pediatric hospitalist Dr. Gabrielle Pina from Loma Linda University Children’s Health explains, “Pertussis is called whooping cough because as the diaphragm squeezes the lungs to try to expel mucus, it forcefully propels air from the lungs.”
“Even more concerning is when infants stop being audible,” adds Dr. Pina. “They may develop apnea, where they literally cease breathing for over 20 seconds, which can be terrifying for parents.”
The CDC reports that the United States is witnessing a 10-year high in whooping cough cases, with over 17,000 reported incidents thus far. This equates to five times more cases than the previous year, with a disproportionate number of cases located in California.
“It looks like it’s coming back with a vengeance,” Dr. Pina continues, noting that pertussis cases are returning to pre-pandemic levels. This resurgence correlates with a period when mask-wearing and social isolation were predominant, and many families neglected routine childhood vaccinations.
“Communities with low vaccination rates are at a much higher risk for vaccine-preventable diseases, such as pertussis,” she emphasizes.
Infants under one year old are at the highest risk of contracting the infection and facing severe complications, with a third of affected infants requiring hospitalization.
Pertussis is a respiratory tract infection that can typically be treated with antibiotics; however, treatment primarily prevents the bacteria’s further spread rather than curing the infection.
Adults, especially those who are immunocompromised or elderly, are advised to receive a Tdap booster vaccine every ten years, with pregnant women recommended to get the vaccine at 27 weeks gestation. “This helps ensure that antibodies cross to the baby, providing them with the best protection,” says Dr. Pina.
Dr. Pina anticipates that case numbers will continue to increase. She advises vaccination, keeping newborns away from crowded places, and practicing good hygiene. “Wash your hands frequently. If you feel unwell, please wear a mask, as this helps limit the spread of disease,” she adds.
Expert Discussion
To delve deeper into this outbreak, we invited a panel of experts to discuss the implications and preventive measures:
Dr. Gabrielle Pina, Pediatric Hospitalist, Loma Linda University Children’s Health
Dr. Richard Chen, Epidemiologist, California Department of Public Health
Dr. Sarah Lewis, Infectious Disease Specialist, UCLA Medical Center
Discussion Points:
- Dr. Chen: “The increase in cases reflects a combination of factors, including vaccine hesitancy and reduced access to healthcare services during the pandemic.”
- Dr. Lewis: “It’s crucial to educate communities about the importance of vaccinations in preventing outbreaks.”
- Dr. Pina: “What strategies can we implement to reach those hesitant about vaccinating their children?”
This ongoing discussion highlights significant public health challenges. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on the situation in the comments below.