Victorian-Era Disease Outbreaks in US Schools: States Affected & What You Need to Know
Outbreak of Whooping Cough in Alabama and North Carolina
Alabama and North Carolina are experiencing an outbreak of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. Alabama reports 123 cases, while North Carolina has seen 525 cases. The bacteria Bordetella pertussis causes this illness, leading to severe coughing fits, fever, and other symptoms. In severe instances, complications can arise, including vomiting and breathing difficulties. About 1% of infants with the disease may die.
The outbreak began in spring 2024 and intensified in August, coinciding with the cold and flu season, which may increase susceptibility to infections. Overall, 2024 has reported over 16,000 pertussis cases, five times the amount seen in 2023, and includes two confirmed deaths.
Spread of the Disease
Most cases are found in states like Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois, California, Washington, Oregon, Massachusetts, and Arizona. The CDC attributes this surge in cases to a drop in vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vaccination is critical in preventing whooping cough. The CDC recommends children receive three doses of the Tdap vaccine before their first birthday. The vaccine is roughly 98% effective in preventing the disease for children in the year after vaccination.
Recent Developments in Alabama and North Carolina
In Alabama, high schools in Trussville and Springville, along with the University of Alabama Huntsville, are seeing the most cases. The rate of infection in Alabama has risen by 300%, going from 41 to 123 cases over the last year.
In North Carolina, many cases are concentrated in Buncombe County. Previously, the state had nearly 120 cases in spring, but numbers decreased over the summer before rising again in the fall. Health officials warn of a potential rise in cases similar to spring trends.
Understanding Whooping Cough
Whooping cough spreads easily, especially among children and teens in close contact at schools or daycares. Symptoms usually appear a week after infection, starting with cold-like feelings and a mild cough before progressing to violent coughing fits. Victims describe it as the worst cough of their lives.
Historically, whooping cough was responsible for high mortality rates until the development of the first vaccine in 1948. This vaccine effectively reduced fatalities among children.
Today, the CDC recommends a series of vaccinations throughout life, as the vaccine also provides immunity against tetanus and diphtheria. The initial vaccinations occur when infants are two, four, and six months old, with additional doses needed up to age 11.
Despite the vaccine’s effectiveness, hesitancy around vaccinations remains high. The CDC reports that about 80.4% of children in the U.S. are vaccinated against pertussis by age one.
Treatment and Prevention
If someone contracts whooping cough, healthcare providers can prescribe antibiotics. Preventative measures may include prescribing antibiotics to those who have been exposed to the disease to limit its spread.
Overall, maintaining high vaccination rates is essential to control this outbreak and protect vulnerable populations, particularly infants.