Whooping cough cases on the rise locally and across the state

Oneida County and counties across the state are seeing an increase in whooping cough (pertussis) cases in both adults and children. Late last week, the Oneida County Health Department reported it has documented four cases since July 16, 2024. In a typical year the agency usually sees just one case, if any, per year.

What are the symptoms?

Early symptoms are similar to other respiratory illnesses. People can experience a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, occasional cough and low grade fever. Whooping cough can then progress to a more serious cough that can interrupt breathing, eating and sleeping. Such a coughing spell often ends with a loud “whooping” sound on inhalation, giving the illness its name. These symptoms may persist for several weeks or months and can vary with age.

What should I do if I think I have it?

If you or someone you know shows symptoms of whooping cough, contact your health care provider particularly if high risk individuals are affected. Those at high risk include infants under one year old, adolescents between 10 and 20 years of age, pregnant people — especially in the third trimester, people who have a chronic respiratory illness, and all those not vaccinated against pertussis — regardless of age.

How can I prevent it?

You can prevent whooping cough (pertussis) by frequent, thorough hand washing, covering all coughs, staying home when sick or feverish and ensuring you and your family are up to date with vaccines. It is still possible to contract whooping cough even if vaccinated, although the likelihood is reduced and symptoms will typically be milder.

Vaccines to protect against pertussis are available through your provider, some pharmacies, and the Oneida County Health Department. For more information or to make an appointment, contact the health department at 715-369-6111.

Where can I learn more?

Interested in learning more? Check out these resources for additional information about whooping cough (pertussis):

• https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/pertussis.htm

• https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whooping-cough/symptoms-causes/syc-20378973 

• https://www.lung.org/blog/whooping-cough.