Case of whooping cough confirmed in Caldwell County, health officials say

CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — Health officials confirmed a case of whooping cough Friday in Caldwell County.

They said the person diagnosed is being treated, and the people they came in contact with have been notified.

“It is very important to be tested for pertussis if someone has the signs and symptoms. Pertussis can be a more serious infection among infants and young children. It can be fatal, especially in babies under 1 year of age,” said Dr. Mark Picton, medical director of the Caldwell County Health Department.

Whooping cough is an infection that affects a person’s airways and can easily spread by coughing or sneezing.

According to officials, symptoms at first include runny nose, low-grade fever, and occasional cough. After one to two weeks, symptoms can worsen to include severe coughing spells, vomiting and feeling very tired after coughing spells.

People experiencing symptoms should go to a doctor and avoid others, health officials said.

Health department investigating reported case of whooping cough at Statesville HS Health department investigating reported case of whooping cough at Statesville HS

Those at high risk include infants, pregnant women and people with weak immune systems, according to officials.

“The best protection against pertussis is vaccination. We urge everyone to make sure their family’s vaccinations are up to date,” said health director Anna Martin.

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

• Man who murdered NoDa sandwich shop co-owner stole $100 from him, warrants say
• Charlotte events cancel, make changes due to coronavirus concerns
• Pair arrested after worker shot during robbery at popular Charlotte restaurant
• FORECAST: Snow in mountains, blustery winds in metro ahead of sunny, dry weekend
• 'It hit home hard’: Anti-violence advocate’s son killed in Charlotte shooting

© 2020 Cox Media Group