There’s recently been a lot in the news about pertussis or whooping cough. Many states have seen large numbers of this illness over the last few months. But do you really know anything more than its familiar nickname? Here’s your opportunity to learn what exactly pertussis is, how it’s spread and what your family can do to help prevent it.

Pertussis is a contagious illness caused by bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Only found in humans, it can produce serious illness in infants, children and adults, and can even be life-threatening, especially in babies. Pertussis is easily spread from person-to-person via the coughing or sneezing of the infected while in close quarters with healthy individuals who then breathe in the bacteria. Many infants who get pertussis catch it from older siblings, parents or caregivers who might not even know they carry the bacteria.

The best way to prevent pertussis among infants, children, teens and adults is to get vaccinated. In the United States, the recommended vaccine for infants and children is called DTaP. This is a combination vaccine that protects against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. This vaccine is routinely given at your pediatrician’s office. However, it is important to keep in mind that vaccine protection for these three illnesses fades with time so it’s wise for teenagers and adults to receive a DTaP booster every ten years, instead of just a tetanus booster.

Pertussis vaccines are very good at protecting you from illness, but remember that no vaccine is 100% effective. If you or your child develops a cold that includes a severe cough or a cough that lasts for a long time, it may be pertussis. The best way to know for sure is to see your family physician as soon as possible.

And please keep in mind that if your child is displaying symptoms of pertussis, or any other illness, it is important to keep them home and out of a child care setting until they are feeling better or your doctor says your child is no longer contagious. This is for the well-being of everyone in our schools.

If you have questions or would like to make a suggestion for a future topic, please send an email to DrCampbell@learningcaregroup.com.

Dr. James Douglas Campbell, MD, FAAP, MHA, LLC, is a pediatric health professional who advises Tutor Time on the needs of our program as a whole, and provides consultation and technical assistance on child health issues. Dr. Campbell received his Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Florida and a Masters of Health Administration from the University of North Florida College of Health. He is Board Certified with the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He has been taking care of children in Jacksonville, Florida since 1981.