UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – University Health Services (UHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health continue to report cases of pertussis, or "whooping cough," in the University Park community. Since mid-March, five cases have been confirmed with six identified as probable.
Pertussis cases have been rising nationwide, including in Pennsylvania, where 601 cases have been reported through May 25. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows Pennsylvania had 108 cases over the same time last year, marking a 456% increase in cases.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection passed from one person to another through coughing, sneezing and encountering things with the bacteria on their surfaces. Symptoms often include those similar to a common cold — runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever and mild cough. Coughing gradually becomes more severe, often leading to numerous, rapid coughs, called a paroxysm. Vomiting can sometimes occur at the end of a coughing episode.
People with pertussis are considered infectious from the first onset of symptoms. Symptoms typically appear seven to 10 days after initial exposure to an infected individual. A “whoop” sound on inhalation may follow a severe coughing episode, but it is more common in younger children. Sometimes, a persistent hacking cough is the only sign that an adolescent or adult has whooping cough. Pertussis is treated with antibiotics, which are most effective early in the disease.
UHS and the Pennsylvania Department of Health encourage the University Park community to stay alert for symptoms of pertussis and stay current on vaccinations. The best way to prevent pertussis is to be vaccinated. For adults, this includes a Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis — known as Tdap — booster every 10 years and a single dose of Tdap during every pregnancy.
“Incoming students who are preparing to come to campus for the first time are focused on getting measles, mumps, rubella and meningococcal vaccines to fulfill Penn State’s immunization requirements, but there are other vaccinations to consider," said Cecilia Devonshire, infection control manager for UHS. "Tdap is a recommended immunization, and we encourage all students — new and returning — to check their health records to see if it is time for a booster.”
Students are urged not to share food or drinks. Frequent hand washing and respiratory etiquette are also encouraged to help prevent the disease's spread. Symptomatic students can schedule an appointment with UHS if they suspect they have pertussis or have been in close contact with someone who is/was infected. Household contacts, such as roommates, or people at high risk of developing severe pertussis may be advised to take prophylactic antibiotics if they are known to be exposed. People experiencing respiratory symptoms are always advised to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve for at least 24 hours. In public, wear a mask, be distant from others and wash hands frequently.
Students who are sick and unsure if they should see a clinician can call the UHS 24/7 advice nurse line at 814-865-4847 and press option 3. Students can schedule an appointment via myUHS or call 814-865-4847. For more information on pertussis, visit the PADOH website.