State reports ‘significant increase’ in whooping cough cases
The Department of Health Services says there are now 10 times more cases in Wisconsin than last year
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports a significant increase in the number of cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, in the state. DHS urges residents and their children to learn about the pertussis vaccine. As of September 13, 2024, DHS had 625 confirmed cases of pertussis, compared to 51 cases reported in 2023. As of January 1, 2024, two-thirds of Wisconsin counties have reported at least one case. Children ages 11-18 account for nearly half of all reported cases so far this year, according to DHS. “Whooping cough can be very serious, especially for children. The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay up-to-date on your vaccines,” said Stephanie, Immunization Program Manager for DHS Wisconsin. Shawer said. Pertussis is a serious respiratory illness that can lead to health complications such as pneumonia or death, especially in very young children. It begins with cold-like symptoms and develops into a severe cough that lasts for months. Coughing episodes can cause difficulty breathing, wheezing or vomiting. Some people have more of a “whoop” after coughing. DHS urges anyone experiencing symptoms to stay home, call their health care provider, and follow their instructions. Severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention. Wisconsin residents who don’t have health insurance or who don’t have coverage for vaccinations can get help from the Childhood Immunizations or Immunizations for Adults programs.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is reporting a significant increase in the number of cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, in the state.
DHS urges residents and their children to be up to date on their pertussis vaccination.
As of September 13, 2024, DHS has received reports of 625 confirmed cases of pertussis, compared to 51 cases reported in 2023. As of January 1, 2024, two-thirds of Wisconsin counties have reported at least one case.
According to DHS, children ages 11-18 now account for nearly half of all cases reported so far this year.
“Whooping cough is very serious, especially for children. The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay up-to-date on your vaccinations,” said Stephanie Schauer, immunization program manager for DHS Wisconsin.
Pertussis is a serious respiratory illness that can lead to health complications such as pneumonia or death, especially in very young children. It begins with cold-like symptoms and develops into a severe cough that lasts for months. Coughing episodes can cause difficulty breathing, wheezing or vomiting. Some people have a lot of “oops” after coughing.
DHS urges anyone experiencing symptoms to stay home, call their health care provider, and follow their instructions. Severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
Wisconsin residents who don’t have health insurance or who don’t cover vaccinations can get help Vaccines for children Or Vaccinations for adults projects.
