Whooping Cough Update

Two confirmed cases of pertussis a week are being reported to San Juan Basin Health Department on average. The Health Department investigates each case thoroughly to determine close contacts of the individual as well as recommends follow-up actions when necessary to prevent further spread of the disease. A close contact is defined as face-to-face contact while someone was sneezing or coughing. In addition to speaking with close contacts (usually family members), San Juan Basin Health always contacts the particular school, childcare center, etc. that the confirmed case attends; and all parents are notified that their child may have been exposed to pertussis and what symptoms to watch for.