University of Iowa Health Care and the Johnson County Department of Public Health have identified a number of cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, in the in the community and on campus over the last few weeks.

Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection primarily passed from person to person through coughing and sneezing (respiratory spread). 

Symptoms

Symptoms can be quite variable depending on your age and vaccine status. Classically, the cough is severe with fits of cough (whooping) that can lead to vomiting. However, many people experience mild symptoms mimicking the common cold— runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever, and mild, lingering cough.

It is important to know that you can acquire pertussis even if you are fully vaccinated. Those infected can remain contagious for up to several weeks if untreated. Most people infected recover uneventfully, but groups such as infants and those with underlying illnesses are at higher risk for severe illness.

People with preexisting health conditions are at high risk for developing a severe infection. Some conditions that could be made worse by whooping cough include, but are not limited to:

• Immunocomproming conditions
• Moderate to severe medically treated asthma

Vaccination and treatment

UI Student Health and the Johnson County Department of Public Health encourage the university community to stay alert for symptoms of pertussis and stay current on vaccinations. This includes a Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap) booster every 10 years and a single dose of Tdap during every pregnancy.  Symptoms of pertussis can be treated with antibiotics that can help alleviate symptoms and prevent spread.   

People exposed will require antibiotics even if they are immunized. 

Students should contact UI Student Health Nurseline (319-335-9704) with questions or concerns. You may also contact the Johnson County Department of Public Health at 319-356-6040 and ask to speak a disease prevention specialist.