Whooping cough cases rise in Buncombe County

News release from Buncombe County:

Buncombe County Health and Human Services is issuing a public health alert in response to a continuing multi-school outbreak of whooping cough (pertussis) spreading across Buncombe County. 45 cases have been confirmed since August 12, 2024, with many cases still under investigation. At this time, the spread is primarily occurring in school-age children in all areas of Buncombe County.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads through coughs and sneezes. Often, early symptoms are mild, like a common cold, and can include:

• Runny nose
• Low fever
• Sneezing
• Mild cough

Symptoms after 1-2 weeks can quickly worsen and can last for months. They include bad coughing attacks that may lead to:

• A “whoop” sound
• Vomiting
• Problems breathing
• Difficulty sleeping
• Extreme tiredness

Infants under 12 months and individuals with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of severe complications and even death.

To protect infants, the most vulnerable members of our community, we encourage everyone to be vigilant in containing the spread of this bacteria. For people who develop symptoms of whooping cough, it is essential to seek medical attention for testing and treatment as soon as possible to reduce the length and severity of illness.

Dr. Ellis Matheson, Buncombe County Health Director, acknowledges that our community continues to see a multi-school whooping cough outbreak. “We continue to see the numbers of whooping cough cases rise. To stop the spread of the bacteria, people should monitor for even basic symptoms of whooping cough, such as a runny nose and cough, and get tested and treated when advised by their medical provider. We rely on individuals, families, and medical providers to make these important decisions to help contain the spread. This is very important as the holidays approach, and people gather together in close spaces. We want everyone to have a safe and healthy holiday season,” stated Dr. Matheson.

Public Health officials emphasize the importance of good hygiene practices, including coughing and sneezing into elbows, frequent hand washing, masking if symptomatic, and staying home if any symptoms arise. We urge staff, families, and students to remain vigilant and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of whooping cough develop.

Buncombe County Public Health remains in communication with parents, schools, childcares, and medical providers to share information on possible exposure, prevention measures, and treatment protocols.

Call Buncombe County Health and Human Services at (828) 250-5000 or your primary care provider to schedule a vaccination appointment. For more information on whooping cough and vaccination guidelines, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.