HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. – Health officials in Suffolk County, New York, have issued a warning following a significant increase in cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, throughout the county. With 108 reported cases compared to just four in all of 2022, the spike has prompted concern among officials, particularly as the majority of cases have been identified among school-aged children and their parents.
The respiratory illness, characterized by prolonged and severe coughing fits, can be particularly dangerous for infants who are too young to be vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that early symptoms of pertussis can appear similar to the common cold, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, stating that pertussis can be effectively treated with antibiotics if identified promptly. While a majority of those affected are vaccinated with mild symptoms, health officials stress the importance of seeking medical attention and ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent the spread of the disease.
The rise in pertussis cases in Suffolk County has raised concerns about potential transmission to neighboring areas, prompting health department spokesperson Grace Kelly-McGovern to highlight the need for heightened vigilance among healthcare providers. Vaccination and preventive measures such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, as well as frequent hand washing, are recommended strategies to mitigate the impact of the outbreak.
The CDC reported a nationwide increase in pertussis cases, with 2,388 cases in 2022 compared to 2,116 the year before. However, no similar uptick has been reported in neighboring Nassau County. It is critical for residents, especially parents of school-aged children, to stay informed, seek early diagnosis, and take appropriate preventive measures to limit the impact of the pertussis outbreak in Suffolk County.
