MONTANA – Cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, are increasing in Montana, with this year’s numbers returning to pre-pandemic levels.
There have already been 45 reported cases across the state this year. Gallatin County reports 18 confirmed cases, most occurring in recent weeks.
The Gallatin City-County Health Department suggests that as COVID-19 prevention measures relax, the spread of other respiratory diseases, such as whooping cough, has returned to normal. They also highlight a decline in vaccine routines as a contributing factor.
In the pre-pandemic years, The U.S. saw around 17,500 cases of whooping cough annually. This year almost 18,000, cases have been reported.
Infants, pregnant women, seniors, small children, and the immunocompromised are especially vulnerable to whooping cough. The disease’s symptoms can resemble other respiratory illnesses but are marked by a severe cough.
“Prolonged cough or coughing fits, also whooping cough or where you may have a little bit of a hard time catching your breath because you’re coughing so hard, coughing so hard that you may be gagging. Those are going to be, more hallmark symptoms of pertussis,” Lauren Parri, communicable disease expert, said.
The DTaP vaccine is available for children under 12, while the Tdap vaccine, recommended every 10 years, targets tetanus and diphtheria as well. Early treatment with antibiotics can alleviate symptoms.
Health departments advise those showing symptoms and not up to date on vaccinations to seek medical care.
