Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Updates and information
SDSU is closely monitoring the developments around recent cases of pertussis (whooping cough) and will provide updates as appropriate. To help keep yourself and others safe, familiarize yourself with pertussis symptoms and prevention methods.
Case Notification
On Nov. 10, Student Health Services notified the SDSU community that a case of pertussis had been confirmed in two students who live on campus. The students are being cared for by SHS and recovering. Given student privacy, additional information about the two students and where they live cannot be disclosed.
Case Dashboard
Campus |
Students |
Faculty/Staff |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SDSU San Diego (on-campus)* |
2 |
- |
2 |
|
SDSU San Diego (non-residential) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SDSU Imperial Valley |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SDSU Georgia |
0 |
0 |
0 |
| Total |
2 |
0 |
2 |
*On-campus is defined as individuals who live on campus.
Report a Pertussis case or exposure
What is Pertussis
More commonly called whooping cough, pertussis is a contagious respiratory illness that is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, they transmit droplets with the bacterium that can be breathed in by others.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of a pertussis infection typically develop five to ten days after exposure, but can develop as long as twenty-one days after exposure.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, early symptoms can be similar to a common cold and include runny nose, low grade fever (less than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit), and a mild, occasional cough.
One to two weeks after symptoms start, more severe symptoms occur. This includes rapid, violent, and uncontrolled coughing fits. People may make a high-pitched “whoop” when inhaling after a coughing fit or vomit during or after a coughing fit and these more severe symptoms will often last multiple weeks.
Lowering Your Risk, Preventative Steps
The best way to protect yourself against pertussis is with vaccination. The Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is required for students at SDSU, so the majority of our students have a recent dose of this vaccine. Being up to date with this vaccine means having had one dose within the last 10 years. While some individuals who are vaccinated may still become ill with pertussis, the illness will generally not be as severe.
Students can check their vaccination record in HealtheConnect on the “Immunizations” tab. Employees are advised to check with their healthcare provider. Vaccinations are available for students at Student Health Services and all community members can access vaccinations through local healthcare providers or pharmacies.
It is also recommended that you practice good health and wellness habits, including:
- Stay home when you are feeling unwell
- Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing noses, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid personal contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid sharing food, cups or utensils.
Resources
For more information on local case numbers, symptoms, transmission risk, prevention and treatment, the following resources are available:
- California Department of Public Health
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- San Diego County Health & Human Services Agency
Last updated: November 10, 2024
