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Protect your Baby from Pertussis Pertussis is a serious disease that has been increasing in the United States. Pertussis causes a severe cough and is highly contagious. It is called “whooping cough” because of the sound of the cough in some people. The cough may last for weeks or months. Babies are especially at risk. The disease is especially dangerous for babies too young to be vaccinated. Babies start getting vaccinated against pertussis when they are 2 months old, but it takes several more months for the vaccine to work. More than half of young babies with pertussis need to be hospitalized and some die from the disease. Complications of pertussis include pneumonia and seizures. 75% of babies with pertussis get it from someone who lives with or cares for them. The protection people get from pertussis through their childhood vaccine wears off after 5 to 10 years. That means older children and adults can get sick with pertussis and spread it to babies who haven’t been vaccinated. Pertussis spreads easily, so be aware. See your doctor immediately if: Your baby comes into contact with someone who has pertussis, or Anyone in your family has pertussis-like Make sure everyone in your family and anyone who will care for your baby is vaccinated against pertussis. Have your baby vaccinated on time and with all of the recommended vaccines. Keep your baby away from others who are sick. Recognize the signs and of pertussis Pertussis may start out like a cold, with a runny nose, sneezing, mild fever, and cough. After one to two weeks, the cough gets worse and turns into coughing fits. In babies: Some babies may have trouble breathing. Coughing spells may be so bad that it may be hard for the baby to eat or drink. In young children: Coughing fits are often followed by a “whooping” sound as they try to catch their breath. After coughing, they may vomit, have difficulty catching their breath, or become blue in the face. The cough is usually worse at night and cough medicines do not always help. In adolescents and adults: Pertussis in older children and adults may only appear as a persistent cough. Where can you and your family get vaccinated? Babies and young children can get their pertussis vaccines at the pediatrician’s office. If you are uninsured or are on Medicaid, you can also get them at the Cape May County Department of Health. Adolescents and adults may be able to get the Tdap vaccine at their doctor’s office. Many insurance companies pay for vaccines. Check with your insurance company or your doctor’s office. The Cape May County Department of Health offers the Tdap vaccine. Call 465-1200 to schedule an appointment. Adapted from Texas Medical Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Vaccination is the best protection for yourself and your family. Ask your healthcare provider about the booster shot for tetanus- diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) for those who live with or care for your baby. The Tdap vaccine is recommended for all adolescents and adults, especially: Women who have just had a baby, if they haven’t had it in the past. Anyone who has close contact with an infant less than 12 months of age. This includes parents, siblings, grandparents, other family members, child care providers, and healthcare workers. New Jersey students entering the 6th grade. All adults, as a one-time substitute for a regular tetanus booster. P