Compared to the outbreaks
other states have seen in cases in pertussis, more commonly known as whooping
cough, the recent spike in Kentucky
is relatively small. So far the state has received 164 reports of the illness,
according to data provided by the state’s Department of Public Health.
Fayette County’s outbreak is now tapering off, the
state’s epidemiologists said. Madison and Estill counties have also reported increases.
Mark Pyle, director of the Christian County Health
Department, said no one has reported cases of the illness in this county so
far. But the department still taking these measures to prevent the sickness’
spread.
As I reported in today’s paper, the most effective way to
fend off whooping cough is to get a vaccination if you haven’t done so in
recent years. The health department, Cayce’s Pharmacy, and Walgreen’s are all
offering it without requiring a visit with a doctor.
The CDC recommends this video for a glimpse at how whooping
cough affects people whom it infects. Look beyond the jump for charts on state historical
data on whooping cough.
