Flu and pertussis cases reported in the Flathead

The Flathead City-County Health Department recently received reports of nine new cases of pertussis or whooping cough since Oct. 15. It also reports a confirmed case of influenza in the area.

Eight of the pertussis cases are school-age children attending three different school districts in Flathead County. At least six ill individuals are not fully immunized against pertussis. These cases are unrelated to two cases reported at the beginning of the school year. The Health Department has contacted all known contacts of these cases.

“The community response to pertussis reports earlier this year has helped curb the disease in our community,” community health director Jody White said.

Immunization rates for pertussis have increased, and persons identified as contacts have followed up on recommendations for antibiotics to prevent illness following exposure. Vaccine is available for individuals 2 months of age and older.

Immunization against pertussis helps to create a cocoon effect by surrounding those who are too young or unable to receive vaccine for medical reasons with others who are vaccinated. This ultimately decreases the spread of disease and protects those who are vulnerable.

People with pertussis should not go to day care, school, work or public gatherings until at least five days after starting an antibiotic, White advises. To prevent secondary cases, it is important that all household and close contacts including classmates be treated with medication at the same time as the ill persons.

The Health Department also recently confirmed a case of influenza A in the Flathead.

“This confirmation indicates that influenza is circulating in our community,” White said. “We want to encourage the public to receive their flu shot to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Influenza vaccination is the best way to prevent getting the flu, White said. It takes up to two weeks before the vaccine is effective. Other ways to prevent transmitting flu include covering a cough, frequent hand-washing and staying home when ill.

Influenza virus usually spreads person to person by coughing or sneezing. It is also possible to become infected by touching something with flu virus on it, and then touching your mouth or nose. Most adults are infectious one day before they have symptoms.

The Health Department will expand immunization hours and staffing from Oct. 22 to 26 to accommodate the public. Shots will be available on a walk-in basis from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. An influenza vaccine clinic will be held at the Village Greens Community Center on Tuesday, Oct. 23, from 9 a.m. to noon.

For any additional information, call 751-8110 or visit online at www.flatheadhealth.org.