The New River Health District is currently investigating a small number of confirmed and suspected cases of pertussis in Montgomery County. Some of the cases involve school-aged children, according to the Health District. As part of the public health investigation, several individuals, including children, have received testing, treatment, and/or post-exposure antibiotics as recommended by the CDC.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious disease characterized by severe coughing. The Virginia Department of Health warns that the disease can be especially severe in children under one year of age. Health District officials note that pertussis is considered endemic in Southwest Virginia, meaning cases are regularly diagnosed in the region. While vaccination can help prevent pertussis, protection against the illness may decrease over time.
For more information on pertussis, visit the Health District’s website. Stay informed about the latest news by signing up to receive the morning’s top stories in your inbox every day at noon. Copyright 2024 by WSLS 10 – All rights reserved.