Officials warn to get vaccines now before school rush

LEXINGTON, KY — With the new school year quickly approaching, health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are up to date on their vaccinations, particularly the pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine, as Lexington faces an ongoing outbreak.

Kevin Hall, Communications Officer at the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable populations. “The people who are at highest risk are young children, babies, infants, anyone who has a compromised immune system, and older adults,” Hall said.

Since April 26, Lexington has reported 43 confirmed cases of whooping cough, surpassing the total number of cases from the previous five years combined. This surge in cases highlights the need for increased vigilance and immunization.

Hall recommends that caregivers and adults who have not received their pertussis booster shot consult with their healthcare provider. “The CDC guidance is that it should be every 10 years. If you are pregnant, you want to make sure you’re getting that every time that you’re pregnant. And if you are going to be around an infant, so your parent, caregiver, grandparent, you want to make sure you’re getting that as well. The infants, young babies are at the highest risk of hospitalizations and deaths from this,” he explained.

Whooping cough symptoms can mimic those of seasonal allergies or a common cold, including a runny nose, low-grade fever, and cough. Hall noted that many vaccinated individuals might not exhibit the classic whooping cough symptoms, such as the distinctive cough. “Most people think that because it’s whooping cough, the cough has to be present. What we’re seeing that’s unique in these cases is that the vast majority of people who have tested positive have also been vaccinated, and they’re not showing that cough,” Hall said.

If left untreated, whooping cough can lead to severe coughing fits that could cause complications such as broken ribs. Hall stressed the importance of early treatment and prevention.

As the summer progresses and the start of the new school year nears, Hall advises parents to ensure their children are current with their vaccinations to avoid a last-minute rush. Additionally, he recommends practicing proper hygiene and staying home if feeling unwell to prevent the spread of illness.

For more information on vaccinations and the whooping cough outbreak, contact the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.