According to the Henderson County Department of Public Health, a total of 27 cases of pertussis have been reported in the county.

Andrew Mundhenk, a spokesperson for the health department, stated that health officials are actively working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to the cases. Most of the reported cases are among school-aged children. Parents, guardians, and close contacts of the affected individuals are being alerted through letter or phone calls.

Pertussis is an infection that affects the airways and lungs, and it can be easily spread through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms typically develop within a span of 5 to 10 days after exposure, but in some cases, it may take up to 21 days. The infection causes a severe cough that can last for weeks or even months, sometimes leading to coughing fits or vomiting.

While anyone can be affected by pertussis, infants below 12 months of age and individuals with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for severe complications and potential death. In light of this outbreak, health officials strongly encourage families to ensure that their vaccinations are up-to-date.

It is important to note that protection against pertussis from the childhood vaccine, DTaP, decreases over time. Therefore, older children and adults, including pregnant women, need to receive a pertussis booster shot known as "Tdap" to safeguard themselves and infants in their vicinity.

Residents of Henderson County who require the Tdap vaccine can contact their healthcare provider or reach out to the Health Department at 828-692-4223 for assistance.

For additional information on pertussis, individuals can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

As the outbreak continues, health officials in Henderson County are urging the community to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and prioritize immunization to prevent the further spread of this highly contagious respiratory infection.