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Whooping Cough, formerly known as Pertussis, continues to be a major issue in Wisconsin, with cases on the rise.
Whooping Cough is a serious respiratory illness that can lead to pneumonia or even death, most notably in young children and the elderly.
Pertussis begins with cold-like symptoms that later develop into a severe cough.
This year, cases have seen a substantial spike, increasing by more than 1,000 percent compared to last year.
As of the start of this week, 625 confirmed whooping cough cases have been reported, compared to just 51 last year.
The spread of Pertussis is an issue statewide as two-thirds of all Wisconsin counties have reported cases.
While anyone can get Pertussis, those ages 11 to 18 make up nearly half of these cases.
To this point, Stephanie Schauer, Department of Health Services Immunization Program Manager, said, “Whooping cough can be very serious, especially for infants. The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay up to date on your vaccines.”
More information on Whooping cough, its threat, and immunization details can be found online at dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/pertussis.
