Protect Yourself Against Pertussis Whooping Cough
November 8, 2024 4:02 PM

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

McKinley Health Center is seeing an increased number of people with pertussis, also called whooping cough, and I want you to know what it is and how to keep yourself and others in our community healthy.

What causes whooping cough?

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is caused by bacteria, Bordetella pertussis, that live in the mouth, nose and throat. Pertussis is highly contagious and is easily spread from person-to-person. 

How is it spread?

The illness often resembles a simple cold, so people may spread it through coughing and sneezing before they know they are ill. An infected person is contagious from just before onset of symptoms until up to three weeks after symptoms start. Treatment with appropriate antibiotics shortens the contagious period to about five days.

What are the symptoms?

Early symptoms include runny nose, cough, fever and difficulty breathing. Coughing can last as long as 100 days. In advanced cases, people cough so much they may vomit, feel exhausted or turn blue from lack of oxygen.

How is treated?

Whooping cough is usually treated with a multi-day course of antibiotics. People in close contact with others who are positive for pertussis usually need to be treated with antibiotics.

How can I keep myself and others safe?

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use.
• If you have a cough, wear a mask. Masks are available at McKinley Health Center.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If water is not near, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
• Do not share eating and/or drinking utensils.
• Refrain from close contact with individuals who are sick/experiencing symptoms.
• Fever is often a sign that you are contagious. If you feel ill, distance yourself from others and call your healthcare provider for advice.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. (Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.)
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces to reduce illness causing bacteria and viruses.
• If you are a household member or have high-risk close contact with a person who has pertussis, take the proper preventive antibiotics.
• If you are instructed to isolate due to illness, stay home and do not attend classes or work. If you must leave your home (e.g., for an emergency, to pick up medications/food), wear a mask, disinfect your hands and do not have close contact with others. 

What should I do if I think I or someone I know has whooping cough?

Seek care right away.

• Students may call McKinley’s Dial-A-Nurse at (217) 333-2700 to talk about their symptoms or arrange a visit.
• Faculty and staff should contact their medical provider. 

Sincerely,

Awais Vaid
Executive Director
McKinley Health Center