Health officials urge precautions against contagious virus
Murphy – Cherokee County health officials are urging precautions amid an outbreak of whooping cough – also called pertussis.
The Cherokee County Health Department has confirmed the outbreak, urging local residents to take precautions to prevent further spread.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can cause serious illness, especially in infants, young children
and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The health department is coordinating with health-care providers, confirmed cases and their close contacts to contain the outbreak and ensure those affected receive appropriate care.
“Our team is committed to protecting the health of our community and providing up-to-date guidance as the situation develops,” the health department said in a release. “There are less than 10 laboratory confirmed cases.”
What you need to know
Symptoms begin like a common cold – runny nose, low-grade fever and mild cough – but progress to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks.
Infants are most at risk and may not show the classic symptoms.
Vaccination is the best protection. The T dap or TaP vaccine is considered safe and effective.
If you or your child develop symptoms, especially a prolonged or severe cough, contact your health-care provider.
Health recommendations
- All children be up-to-date on their TaP vaccinations.
- Pregnant individuals should receive the Tap vaccine during each pregnancy, ideally from 27-36 weeks of gestation.
- Close contacts of confirmed cases follow quarantine and treatment guidance from public health officials.
- Residents are strongly encouraged to review their vaccination records and consult with their health-care provider if they are unsure of their protection against pertussis.
Details
- Call the Cherokee County Health Department at 828-837-7486 to speak with the communicable disease nurse or immunization coordinator.