Increased Pertussis in Maine: Check your vaccination status!

More than 160 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have been reported inMaineso far in 2011, compared with 53 for all of 2010 and 80 in 2009. About 64% of 2011 cases have been in residents ofPenobscotCounty. Clusters of pertussis have been reported in schools, camps, sport teams, and workplaces.

Pertussis is a highly communicable, vaccine-preventable respiratory disease that can last for many weeks. It is spread from person to person through the air.  The first signs of pertussis are similar to a cold (sneezing, runny nose, low-grade fever, and a cough).  After one or two weeks, the cough gets worse.  Pertussis can be very serious, especially in infants. The most common complication of pertussis is bacterial pneumonia. Rare complications include seizures, inflammation of the brain, and death.  For more information about vaccine recommendations, see the Health Alert issued by Maine CDC on Nov. 14: http://go.usa.gov/5DB

Prevent the spread of Influenza!

At this time, locally and as a state we are seeing minimal influenza activity.  Influenza is a community-based infection.  Each year 5-20% of US residents acquire an influenza virus infection. Flu seasons are unpredictable and can be severe.

Signs and symptoms of Influenza can include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny/ stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.

*If you are our Patient, please tell us if you have signs/symptoms of Influenza.

• During routine appointment reminder calls
• At registration
• Emergency Department Triage
• If you become sick the day of your appointment call the office and ask if you should still come in.

You may be asked to reschedule routine appointments, or asked to place a mask on when you enter the Hospital. Masks will be available at each entrance, office, and nursing stations.  Also, please use provided Hand Sanitizer when entering the building.

Get Vaccinated! The vaccine will protect you through the entire flu season.  Flu vaccine is recommended for all people for the 2011-2012 season.

To prevent spread within the community….if you become sick with mild illness stay home and treat your symptoms.  Stay home for at least 24 hrs. after you are fever free (fever is a temp greater than 100˚ F) without the use of fever-reducing medications, limit contact with others, use good respiratory hygiene, drink plenty of clear fluids, and get increased rest and sleep.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care.

Warning signs for Children:

Fast breathing or difficulty breathing, Bluish or gray skin color, Not drinking enough fluids, Severe or persistent vomiting, Not waking up or not interacting, irritable and not wanting to be held, Flu –like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

Warning signs for Adults:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, Sudden dizziness, Confusion, Severe or persistent vomiting, Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

For more information RE: Pertussis or Influenza prevention please contact Ellen Bartlett, RN, Infection Preventionist at HRH.  207-521-2340

Reference: CDC