Cases of whooping cough on the rise

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is reporting a significant increase in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, across Wisconsin.

Pertussis is a serious respiratory illness that can lead to health complications, such as pneumonia or even death, particularly in very young children. It begins with cold-like symptoms and develops into a serious cough, that can last up to several months.

Coughing episodes can cause difficulty breathing, gagging or vomiting. Some people also may have a high-pitched “whoop” after they cough.

It is very important to treat this illness early. Anyone experiencing symptoms of pertussis should stay home, call their healthcare provider and follow their instructions. Severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, need immediate medical care.

As of Sept. 13, the DHS has received reports of 625 confirmed cases of pertussis, compared to 51 cases reported in 2023. Since Jan. 1, two-thirds of Wisconsin counties, have reported at least one case.

While people can get pertussis at any age, Wisconsinites aged 11 to 18, currently make up nearly half of all cases reported so far this year.

“While it’s not uncommon for Wisconsin to see more cases of whooping cough, compared to other years, this year, there have already been more than 10 times as many cases, as were reported in all of 2023,” said Dr. Stephanie Schauer, DHS immunization program manager. “Whooping cough can be very serious, especially for infants. The best way to protect yourself and others, is to stay up-todate on your vaccines.”