Whooping cough cases spread in Wood County

Pertussis activity has increased in several regions of Wisconsin. In the past two weeks there have been 11 lab confirmed cases of Pertussis in Wood County alone.

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a very contagious bacterial disease that affects the respiratory tract. The bacteria is spread by close contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person through coughing. Household spread is very common.

The disease begins much like a cold with a runny nose, possible low grade fever and/or a mild but irritating cough for one to two weeks. This is when a person is the most contagious. The illness progresses to spells of explosive coughing that can interrupt breathing, eating and sleeping and is commonly followed by vomiting and exhaustion. Following the cough, patients may make a loud crowing or “whooping” sound as they struggle to inhale air (hence the name whooping cough).

If you or anyone in your family has any of these symptoms, please contact your health care provider for testing.

Prevention is the key. Routine immunization with DTAP (Diptheria, Tetanus and Acellular Pertussis) of infants and children is recommended for children at 2, 4, 6 and 15-18 months of age with a booster dose at 4-6 years of age. TDAP vaccine is recommended for children starting at the age of 11.

TDAP is also strongly recommended for new parents, and anyone who will be in contact with the infant (grandparents, babysitters, neighbors, etc.). Please check your and your families immunization status and get updated.

If you would like more information, please call the Wood County Health Department at 715-421-8911.