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Dear Lafayette Campus Community,
I am writing to share some important information on a respiratory infection that was recently diagnosed at Bailey Health Center and how you can protect yourself.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has been reporting an increase in cases and outbreaks of pertussis across the state, mostly among high school students. Two patients have recently been diagnosed with this infection at the health center.
Pertussis is an acute bacterial infection that is spread via airborne transmission of infected droplets. In the early stage of the infection, individuals typically have a runny nose, low grade fever, and cough. Over time, some people will have intractable coughing fits followed by the characteristic sound of “whooping cough” when they are able to inhale following an episode. The cough can last for several weeks. Infants, toddlers, and those with underlying respiratory diseases can develop serious complications.
Treatment
Pertussis can be treated with a common antibiotic such as Zithromax that can be prescribed by your medical provider. Antibiotics may also be recommended for people who are household contacts or roommates of those diagnosed with pertussis within 21 days of their first exposure to the illness.
Prevention
The best way to prevent whooping cough is with the pertussis vaccine, which is usually given in combination with two other immunizations for other serious infections (a combination typically referred to as the “Tdap” vaccine, since it combines protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis). Although this is one of the required vaccines for students, because the resulting immunity of this vaccine wanes over time a booster is recommended every 10 years. This fact is especially important for our staff and faculty who may have had the vaccine many years ago. It is best to check with your medical provider or review your immunization record to ensure that you are up to date on this important vaccine.
As always, we can limit the spread of infectious diseases by:
While I do not expect a widespread outbreak of pertussis on campus, by taking these steps to limit the spread of this infection you can help protect yourself and our community.
Be well and stay healthy.
Respectfully,
Dr. Jeff Goldstein
Director of Health Services