Whooping Cough Reported In Angels Camp

Angels Camp, CA — Two confirmed cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have been reported in Angels Camp, and the Public Health Department is urging residents to make sure children are up to date on immunizations.

Respiratory illness consistent with pertussis is also being investigated in four students at Avery Middle School and one student at Hazel Fisher School.

Pertussis is a bacterial infection of the lungs and throat and lasts several weeks. It is highly contagious and causes a severe cough.

Dr. Dean Kelaita, County Health Officer, says that early symptoms of pertussis are similar to the common cold (runny nose, sore throat, slight fever). The cough will then worsen. ?Coughing can become severe enough to cause vomiting after a series of rapid, deep coughs,? says Kelaita.

Pertussis is preventable through immunization shots, and can also be treated with antibiotics. Vaccines are available at low or no cost at the Calaveras County Public Health Department´s community clinics. Upcoming dates include Dec. 18th from 3-4:30pm at the Chapel in the Pines in Arnold and Dec. 23rd from 3-5:30pm at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Angels Camp.

Written by BJ Hansen