Contagious health concerns statewide

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Concerns grow as two contagious diseases continue to spread statewide.

Multiple cases of Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Varicella (Chicken Pox) are being investigated across the Hoosier state.

According to the Vigo County Health Dept., there have been 367 cases of Pertussis and 222 cases of Caricella that have been reported statewide.

Pertussis is a very contagious disease that is caused by a type of bacteria. Symptoms are similar to the common cold-runny nose, congestion, sneezing, cough and fever.

After one to two weeks, a severe cough begins. Children with the disease typically cough violently and rapidly, over and over where they make a “whooping” sound.

Pertussis is spread through coughing and sneezing while in close contact with others who breathe in the pertussis bacteria.

Varicella is a disease that is caused by an infection, the Varicella Virus, which causes fever and an itchy rash.

It is a common childhood disease, also known as Chickenpox. Symptoms include an itchy skin rash of blister like lesions covering the body but are more concentrated to the face, scalp and trunk. Most individuals develop a fever before the rash appears.

Chickenpox is spread through the air or by contact with fluid from Chickenpox blisters.

Although Vigo County has not seen an increase in either Pertussis or Varicella, the best method of prevention is to get vaccinated.

For further information, please contact the Vigo County Health Department Clinic at (812) 462-3431.