In 2014, 21 cases of pertussis were reported in total in both counties. Also known as whooping cough, pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory disease, which is spread when an infected person sneezes or coughs and another individual breathes in the bacteria. Pertussis is known for uncontrollable, violent coughing which often makes it hard to breathe. After fits of many coughs, someone with pertussis often needs to take deep breaths, which may result in a “whooping” sound.

“We recommend that individuals and families check their immunization status and if you are not up to date with your immunizations, now is the time to do it,” said Keri McCune, a registered nurse and regional epidemiologist for San Juan Basin Health. Pertussis most commonly affects infants and young children and can be fatal, especially in babies less than 1 year of age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people create a circle of protection around their baby by ensuring that pregnant women, parents, siblings, grandparents and caregivers are up to date with their pertussis vaccination. San Juan Basin Health offers the Tdap vaccine which protects against pertussis as well as tetanus. A donation of $21.65 helps to cover our cost, but no one will be turned away if unable to pay. Even though the pertussis vaccines are effective, it is estimated that after five years, immunity begins to wear off. A Tdap booster is recommended every 5 years, especially for those who have close contact with infants and small children. A Tdap booster is recommended at age 10 and is required for entry into local middle schools in sixth grade. Call 247-5702 to schedule an appointment in La Plata County or 264-2409 in Archuleta County. If your child is fully insured, please contact your pediatrician. Additionally, San Juan Basin Health will be conducting a free Tdap Clinic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Dec. 2 at the La Plata County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/pertussis.