LIVINGSTON COUNTY — The Livingston County Department of Health released a news statement on its website stating that from January 1 to June 11, there have been 55 positive cases of pertussis, or whooping cough in the county.
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According to the health department, the outbreak affects individuals of all ages. Those who have been in contact with an individual with pertussis may have been placed on an antibiotic by their healthcare provider to help prevent the spread of disease, according to the release. Last year during the same time period, there was one positive case of pertussis. The health department said there has also been an increase in upper respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
If a person has a cough, or experiences cold or flu-like symptoms for a week or longer, or if a guardian notices their infant has difficulty breathing, the health department urges them to contact their healthcare provider.
According to the health department’s website, pertussis can cause serious illness in infants, children and adults and can be life-threatening, especially in infants. More than half of infants less than one year old with pertussis must be hospitalized.
If you have questions or need additional information, contact the Immunization Team of the Livingston County Department of Health at 243-7299.