Pertussis Information
What is Pertussis (Whooping Cough)?
- A very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis
- Begins like a common cold: mild fever, runny nose, sneezing with an occasional cough and then symptoms worsen
- Not everyone with pertussis “whoops” when coughing
- Can cause breathing failure or difficulties, pneumonia, and swelling of the brain
- Highly vulnerable population includes babies and infants
- Pregnant women are highly encouraged to get a Tdap vaccine during their third trimester of pregnancy regardless of vaccination history
- Tdap booster shot will pass some of the protection to the baby from the mother, until the baby is old enough (6 to 8 weeks) to get immunized
The Fresno County Immunization Program provides immunizations for children, who qualify for the Vaccines for Children Program (VFC), and eligible adults to protect them against vaccine-preventable diseases.
What is Pertussis?
Medical Providers
School Requirements
Resources
![Hours3.PNG](https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/files/sharedassets/county/v/1/public-health/community-health/iz-program/new-folder/hours3.png?w=350&h=332)
The Fresno County Department of Public Health Immunization Program utilizes the California Immunization Registry (CAIR). For more information on CAIR visit California Immunization Registry.
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