Pertussis also known as whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness. The American Lung Association says only 30% of adults in the U.S have received a Pertussis vaccination in the past 10 years leaving those unvaccinated at a higher risk.
Dr. Albert Rizzo, chief medical officer of the ALA says whooping cough is re-surging for two reasons.
“The bacteria changed a little bit, but it also may be very important to realize that its due to the fact that individuals are not keeping they’re vaccines up to date,” said Dr Rizzo.
With over 35 million Americans living with asthma or COPD the American Lung Association is educating adults about the transmissible illness and its dangers.
Dr. Rizzo says getting vaccinated is a selfless decision.
“Your not only protecting yourself by getting vaccinated but if you get infected you could pass it along to young children who are not immune and certainly to older adults who have underlying lung conditions of asthma or COPD,” said Dr. Rizzo.
Dr. Rizzo says pediatricians and health officials typically see rapid Pertussis infections during the fall but still urges people to stay ahead.
“With like a lot of viruses and bacteria right now things were thrown off a bit so we may be seeing different times when its popular , but again it doesn’t matter what time of year it is if you haven’t been vaccinated within 10 years please get that up to date,” said Dr. Rizzo.
If you are living with COPD or asthma, visit Lung.org/Pertussis or speak with your local healthcare provider about getting a vaccination to help protect you and others against Pertussis.
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