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Health Alert

DeKalb County is currently experiencing Pertussis (Whooping Cough) activity countywide.  Check Back for Updates!

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease.  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 breathes which result in a "whooping" sound. Pertussis most commonly affects infants and young children and can be fatal, especially in babies less than 1 year of age. The best way to protect against pertussis is immunization.

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it Pertussis, a Cold or the Flu?

• Where can I get a Pertussis vaccination (shot)?

• Walk-In Tdap Clinic Available

• Health Department News Release on Pertussis

• Updates
  • Implementation of Tdap Vaccination Requirement with Parent Letter (pdf)- January 25, 2012
  • Frequently asked questions about the Tdap Vaccine Requirement for School Entry (pdf)

For More Information:

• Illinois Department of Public Health General Information
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) General Information, Fast Facts, Information for Clinicians, Pertussis for Kids and Hear the Cough