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Resident asks about pertussis; Board says no local outbreak and urges vaccination
Summary
A resident raised questions about suspected pertussis (whooping cough); the Board said it is aware of at least one state case but not of a local outbreak and reminded residents to see a clinician and keep vaccinations up to date.
A resident, Mike Stahl of Golden Barque Road, asked the Board of Health during public comment whether pertussis (whooping cough) was spreading locally after hearing rumors.
Board members said they were aware of at least one case in Massachusetts but had not received any local reports indicating an increase in cases in the Hubbardston area or Northern Worcester County. The board advised that pertussis is a reportable illness and encouraged anyone who suspects whooping cough to see a clinician or urgent care immediately for diagnosis and testing (which may include swabs or other laboratory testing).
Board members emphasized vaccination as the primary prevention measure: they said pertussis vaccines are safe, recommended at appropriate ages, and that vaccination can reduce severity if illness occurs. The board noted pertussis can produce a persistent, deep “whooping” cough with difficulty breathing and urged residents to keep immunizations current, particularly for vulnerable populations and children.
The board said that meeting audio and video will be posted on YouTube and other town channels if residents wish to review the discussion. The board did not report a local epidemic or an elevated case count at the time of the meeting.
