The ABCs of Diabetes program is a four-part series. You must attend all four classes of the session you choose. Instruction will be given on medications, nutrition, exercise, monitoring, complications and available community resources. Class members will participate in individual consultations with a registered dietitian, registered nurse and health educator. April classes are available at the Nora Public Library, 8625 Guilford Ave., on April 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Classes will also be held at the Irvington Public Library, 5625 E. Washington St. on April 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The program is open to anyone with diabetes or pre-diabetes, as well as family members and friends. Call (317) 221-2094 if you have questions or concerns.
Whooping Cough remains a public health concern
Many may not know much about whooping cough while some may think that pertussis, as it is medically referenced, has been wiped out in the United States.
The truth is, pertussis cases are rising, and more families are learning about this potentially fatal disease.
In Marion County, there were 95 reported cases with no infant deaths in 2010. That compares to only 37 cases in 2009.
Pertussis is a contagious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It may cause severe coughing fits that can interfere with breathing. Although pertussis is often milder in older children and adults, undiagnosed persons can transmit the disease to infants and young children. Pertussis can lead to pneumonia, seizures and sometimes death. Most of these serious problems occur in infants who are younger than a year old.
As with most diseases, early intervention is critical. The symptoms of pertussis occur in three stages. During the first stage, symptoms can be similar to a cold with a slight fever, runny nose, dry cough, loss of appetite and irritability.
During the second stage, the coughing becomes more intense. There may be short, intense coughing spells followed by a long gasp for air (this is when the “whoop” is heard). The coughing fits can include vomiting, nosebleeds or a bluish color to the face.
During the third stage, the cough is less intense and less frequent, and appetite begins to increase. Eventually the cough stops, although this may take several months.
Pertussis is spread by contact with nose or throat secretions from an infected person. This can happen when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Without treatment, an infected person can spread the disease for up to three weeks from the time the cough begins. However, after five days of treatment with the appropriate antibiotic, an infected person cannot spread pertussis.
Vaccination is key. Those who have not completed the required pertussis regimen, or who have not received pertussis vaccine for several years, are considered at increased risk.
Infants too young to be fully vaccinated are at greatest risk for severe illness and death from pertussis-related complications. Adolescents and adults can experience complications, but the risk of death is greatest for those who have underlying medical conditions.
Additional information, including examples of the “whoop” can be found at www.pertussis.com.
Information is also available from the Marion County Public Health Department at (317) 221-2106.
