Whooping cough outbreak reported in Mohave County - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Whooping cough outbreak reported in Mohave County

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By Phil Benson - email
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KINGMAN, AZ (CBS5) -

A pertussis outbreak has hit Mohave County, according to county officials.

A few cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, have been confirmed in the Kingman, Bullhead and Lake Havasu area, said Mohave County Supervisor Buster Johnson. 

There have been 114 confirmed cases in the Colorado City area with 16 new cases in the past two weeks alone, Johnson said. 

Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial disease. Common symptoms to look for are paroxysmal coughs, inspiratory whoop and vomiting after coughing.

"While pertussis can be annoying for adults, if not treated properly, it can be deadly for children, especially newborns," Johnson said. 

Johnson noted the most effective way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination with DTaP for infants and children and with Tdap for preteens, teens and adults. Protection from the childhood vaccine fades over time, requiring revaccination in adulthood, he added.

People with questions or concerns are asked to contact the Mohave County Public Health Department at 928-753-0743.

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