(WFRV) – The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is reporting a significant increase in Whooping Cough cases across the Badger State.
Formally known as pertussis, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services has received reports of 625 confirmed cases, compared to 51 cases reported in 2023.
Since Jan. 1, 2024, 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 this year.
“While it’s not uncommon for Wisconsin to see more cases of Whooping Cough compared to other years, this year there has 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 to date on your vaccines.”
Whooping Cough is a severe respiratory illness that can lead to health complications such as pneumonia or death, particularly in young children. It begins with cold-like symptoms and develops into a severe cough that can last several months.
Coughing episodes can cause difficulty breathing, gagging, or vomiting. Some people also may have a high-pitched “whoop” after they cough.
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The Wisconsin Department of Health Services says it is imperative to treat this illness early. Anyone experiencing symptoms of pertussis should stay home, call their health care provider, and follow their instructions.
Visit the DHS pertussis webpage for more information.
