The Pasadena Public Health Department is currently looking into a whooping cough outbreak at Blair Middle School, where three cases have been confirmed. They’re working closely with the Pasadena Unified School District to monitor the situation.
Health officials are reaching out to those in close contact with the infected individuals. They’re providing guidance on testing and treatment and advising anyone showing symptoms to stay home. This isn’t the first time this year that whooping cough has been a concern; a similar outbreak occurred at Don Benito Fundamental School in April, where four cases were reported.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is becoming more common in the area. Health experts urge residents to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. This is especially important as the illness spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or is in close contact with others. Symptoms can show up five to 21 days after exposure and often start like a mild cold—with a runny nose, sneezing, and a slight cough.
As the illness worsens, it can lead to severe coughing fits that may cause vomiting or difficulty breathing. Infants may not present the typical cough but can show signs such as gagging or changes in skin color.
The Health Department advises those who’ve been exposed to monitor any symptoms for up to three weeks and to contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop. For those diagnosed with whooping cough, staying home is crucial until they complete at least five days of antibiotic treatment. Preventive antibiotics may be suggested for high-risk groups, including infants and pregnant women.
Vaccination remains the best defense against whooping cough. The DTaP vaccine for children should be up to date, and adolescents and adults should receive the Tdap booster, especially if they are in contact with young children.
Dr. Parveen Kaur, Health Officer, emphasized the importance of vigilance regarding children’s health. “Abnormal coughs and symptoms consistent with pertussis should be checked by a doctor. Pertussis can be deadly for high-risk groups,” she stated.
For those interested, the Pasadena Public Health Department offers the Tdap vaccine on Mondays and Wednesdays. It’s available by appointment or for walk-ins during specific hours.
To better understand the current landscape, a recent report by the CDC noted a rise in whooping cough cases across the U.S., with around 15,000 cases reported in 2022. This trend highlights the critical need for public awareness and vaccination efforts.
To learn more about vaccination schedules and best practices, you can visit the CDC’s Whooping Cough page.
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