Urgent Public Health Notice from Olmsted County Public Health Services About Pertussis

Olmsted County is currently experiencing an epidemic of Pertussis (Whooping Cough). More than 170 cases have been reported since April 2012, which is 8 times higher than all of 2011 cases.

Everyone needs to be aware of the following recommendations:

• Anyone experiencing a persistent cough lasting more than 7 days should contact their health care provider to be tested for pertussis. 
• All children need to be vaccinated for pertussis starting at 2 months of age with 4 to 5 doses by kindergarten age. 
• A pertussis booster (Tdap vaccine) can be given to those 10 years of age or older in epidemic areas. 
• All adults are recommended to have current pertussis booster (Tdap vaccine), especially those who interact with children, (parents, grandparents, day care providers, teachers, support staff, transportation providers, paraprofessionals, coaches, etc). 
• Women who are greater than 20 weeks pregnant or who are receiving postpartum care need to have a current pertussis booster (Tdap vaccine).

If you fit into any of these groups recommended for vaccine please check with your medical provider to see that you are fully immunized. Anyone who is uninsured or underinsured and needs a vaccination, call Olmsted County Immunization Desk at 507-328-7500 if you have questions.For more information go to the Minnesota Department of Health website at http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/idepc/diseases/pertussis/pfacts.pdf