Michigan students are returning to school, creating a higher risk for the spread of illnesses. Health officials are expressing concern over the increasing number of cases of a highly contagious infection that poses a potential threat to school-aged children.
Michigan health officials have observed a surge in upper respiratory illnesses among school-aged children, including RSV and seasonal allergies. However, one particular infection has experienced a significant increase in cases since June. Reports from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) indicate that the number of cases has nearly tripled compared to last year.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has recently reported a total of 333 cases of pertussis, commonly known as ‘whooping cough’, in the state. This highly contagious bacterial infection primarily affects the lungs and airways, leading to recurrent bouts of intense coughing. Initially, the symptoms resemble those of a typical cold, including a runny nose, nasal congestion, red eyes, fever, and cough.
However, the coughing can escalate quickly, becoming forceful and rapid, and even causing vomiting. This persistent cough can persist for several days or even extend to months, earning it the moniker of the ‘100-day cough’. It is important to note that whooping cough can have severe consequences for individuals of all ages, particularly posing a grave risk to infants, who may face life-threatening complications.
To combat the infection, MDHSS emphasizes the importance of receiving the pertussis vaccine as the most effective preventive measure. Additionally, early administration of antibiotics can help alleviate the severity of the infection if detected promptly.
