The State of Alaska is issuing a public health alert over rising rates of whooping cough.
State issues public health alert over rising rates of whooping cough ANCHORAGE, Alaska - State of Alaska health officials are seeing a big jump in the number of cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough , as indicated in a recent report from the state Section of Epidemiology., there have been at least 154 cases across the state this year, which is the highest level in nearly a decade.“Cases are primarily occurring in Anchorage and Mat-Su, as well as the Kenai Peninsula,” McLaughlin said.
Nationally, about 20 babies die from pertussis each year, but the number who are hospitalized is much higher; that figure is currently at approximately one in three. A common name for pertussis is whooping cough because of the sound people make trying to catch their breath after severe coughing. Complications can include, pneumonia, seizures, and in severe cases, death.
Not everyone who has pertussis exhibits the characteristic cough, McLaughlin said, adding that symptoms can also resemble a common cold, which may or may not have a fever. Parents of young children or even adults who have concerns should definitely see a medical provider.
Pertussis Anchorage Cases Alaska Pertussis Alaska Whooping Cough Sickness In Alaska
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