Whooping Cough Case Reported at Marantha Christian School

A 10-year-old Marantha Christian School student is reported to have been exposed to pertussis, or whooping cough as it is commonly known, this week.

The student is among one of 12 new cases of whooping cough, bringing San Diego County's total number of cases to 1,046, according to the Health and Human Services Agency.

"Vaccinations continue to be the best protection against pertussis," said County Public Health Officer Wilma Wooten. "However, since immunity wanes over time, it is extremely important for children and especially those around infants, to get a booster shot."

The booster shot protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.

Pertussis typically starts with a cough and runny nose for up to two weeks, followed by weeks to months of rapid coughing fits that sometimes end with a whooping sound.

The illness, which might include a mild fever, is treatable with antibiotics. Last year, San Diego County reported 143 confirmed cases of pertussis. The previous record year for cases was 2005 with 371 confirmed cases. Two infant deaths are among the cases this year.

For more information about whooping cough, call the HHSA Immunization Branch at 866-358-2966 or visit the website at sdiz.org.