Lenoir County Health Department announces pertussis case, advises Tdap and DTaP vaccines

A case of pertussis have been confirmed in Lenoir County.

The Lenoir County Health Department received confirmation that the case had been identified within the county, per officials.

Since pertussis can especially impact babies and young children, this is a good time to remind the community that a vaccine exists to prevent or lessen the severity of pertussis,” Lenoir County Health Department Director Pamela Brown said. “We encourage everyone to ensure they are up-to-date on their pertussis vaccinations to protect themselves and the community, particularly if you are going to be around an infant.

Per officials:

Pertussis is an infectious disease that starts with cold-like symptoms and progresses to a severe cough, sometimes with a "whooping" sound after coughing. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Infants are at high risk for severe complications from pertussis. Getting the vaccine during pregnancy helps protect mother and baby and is recommended in each pregnancy.

The CDC recommends:

• Tdap vaccine for those 7 years and older, including pregnant women
• DTaP vaccine for infants and young children

For questions or concerns about pertussis or to schedule a vaccine appointment, please call the Lenoir County Health Department at 252-526-4200.