Public Health Advisory: Whooping Cough Cases Rise in Haywood County

Haywood County -- July 28, 2025:  Haywood County Public Health officials are urging residents to be vigilant and ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date following a recent increase in whooping cough (pertussis) cases within the county.

As of yesterday, a total of 10 confirmed cases have been reported, all identified since a new cluster emerged on July 2, 2025.

This recent surge marks a significant local concern. Of the 10 confirmed cases, seven are in individuals under the age of 19, and one is an adult. Two of the affected individuals have required hospitalization due to the severity of the illness.

Dr. Sarah Banks, Haywood County Public Health Director, emphasized the importance of community awareness. "We are seeing isolated cases in Haywood County, and we want our residents to understand that pertussis is here, and we need to be cautious," Dr. Banks stated. "The increase in cases is an important reminder that vaccination is the single most effective way to prevent pertussis and reduce the severity of the disease."

Understanding Whooping Cough (Pertussis):

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It spreads easily from person to person through airborne droplets when an infected individual coughs or sneezes.

Initial symptoms often resemble a common cold, including a runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever. However, after one to two weeks, the cough can worsen into severe, uncontrollable fits, often followed by a high-pitched "whooping" sound as the person gasps for air. These coughing spells can be so intense that they lead to vomiting, exhaustion, and difficulty breathing, eating, or sleeping.

A Serious Threat to Infants and Adults:

While whooping cough can affect anyone, it poses the greatest risk to:

Infants: Especially those too young to be fully vaccinated (under 6 months old). In babies, whooping cough can be particularly dangerous, sometimes causing life-threatening pauses in breathing (apnea), pneumonia, seizures, or even death. Many infants contract whooping cough from an unvaccinated adult family member or caregiver.

Adults: While generally less life-threatening than for infants, adults can still experience a very severe and prolonged illness. The intense coughing fits can last for weeks or even months, leading to complications like rib fractures, loss of bladder control, fainting, and severe exhaustion.

Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones Through Vaccination:

Haywood County Public Health strongly recommends the following preventive measures:

Vaccination is the Best Protection:

Children: Ensure all children receive their full series of the DTaP vaccine at 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months of age, and a booster between 4 and 6 years.

Adolescents: A Tdap booster is recommended for preteens aged 11 or 12 years.

Adults (Including Seniors): All adults who have not previously received a dose of the Tdap vaccine should get one. This applies regardless of your age or how long it's been since your last tetanus shot. Even if you had whooping cough as a child or were vaccinated, that protection fades over time.

Special Guidance for Senior Adults (Age 65+): If you are 65 or older and have not had a Tdap vaccine as an adult, or are unsure of your vaccination status, it is recommended that you get one dose. There is no harm in receiving an additional dose if you might have had one previously, and it ensures your protection. After this initial Tdap, routine tetanus and diphtheria boosters (Td or Tdap) are generally recommended every 10 years.

Critical for Pregnant Women: The Tdap vaccine is highly recommended during the third trimester of each pregnancy (ideally between weeks 27 and 36). This provides crucial antibodies that pass to the newborn, offering vital protection during their first few months of life when they are too young to be fully vaccinated.

Caregivers of Infants: Anyone in close contact with infants, including parents, grandparents, babysitters, and healthcare workers, should ensure their Tdap vaccine is up to date to create a "cocoon" of protection around the baby.

Stay Home When Sick: If you or your child develops symptoms such as a persistent cough, especially one that worsens, stay home from school, work, or daycare. Whooping cough is most contagious in its early stages.

Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper arm, and avoid sharing personal items.

Vaccinations for whooping cough are available at Haywood County Health and Human Services, located at 157 Paragon Parkway in Clyde. Both insured and uninsured patients can call 828-452-6675 to schedule an appointment or ask questions.

If you suspect you or a family member has whooping cough, especially if symptoms include severe coughing fits, a "whooping" sound, or difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing severe illness and further spread.

WNCTimes

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