[California is experiencing] (/news/first-us-child-bird-flu-case-reported-in-california-with-mysterious-origins) an alarming rise in whooping cough cases this year, with infection rates climbing to levels not seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic. The California Department of Public Health reports 1,744 cases through September 2024, compared to fewer than 300 cases in all of 2023.
Los Angeles County has recorded 347 confirmed and probable cases so far in 2024, nearly triple the total from 2023. Dr. Nava Yeganeh, medical director for Vaccine Preventable Disease Control in L.A. County, notes increasing reports of infections among school students.
The disease, also known as pertussis, typically begins with cold-like symptoms before progressing to severe coughing fits that can last weeks or months. The distinctive "whooping" sound occurs when patients gasp for air between coughs.
Infants under one year old face the highest risk of severe complications. Babies may experience life-threatening breathing pauses and can turn blue from lack of oxygen. Other high-risk groups include people with compromised immune systems and those with moderate to severe asthma.
The San Francisco Bay Area currently shows the state's highest per capita rate at 17 cases per 100,000 residents, notably above California's overall rate of 5 per 100,000. Marin County leads with 129 cases per 100,000 residents, followed by San Diego County with 14 cases per 100,000.
Prevention relies heavily on vaccination. Babies can receive the DTaP vaccine starting at 2 months old, while adolescents and adults get the Tdap version. Pregnant women should get vaccinated during each pregnancy to pass antibodies to their babies. While vaccines may not prevent all infections, they typically result in milder illness.
The current surge follows historical patterns, as whooping cough tends to spike every 3-5 years. The last major outbreak occurred in 2019, when Los Angeles County reported 1,691 cases. California's worst recent outbreaks happened in 2010 and 2014, with over 9,000 and 11,000 cases respectively.
Health officials recommend prompt testing and treatment for those showing symptoms, along with staying home to avoid spreading the highly contagious bacteria. People exposed to infected individuals may receive preventive antibiotics, as household transmission rates can reach 80%.
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