Whooping Cough Cases Surge in Wisconsin, Schools on Alert
Port Washington, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has reported a significant spike in whooping cough cases, with over 1,730 confirmed infections statewide—a dramatic increase compared to previous years, which typically see fewer than 100 cases. The Port Washington-Saukville School District has alerted parents to several student infections as the highly contagious respiratory illness, known medically as pertussis, spreads rapidly through communities.
According to Lindsey Page, an epidemiologist with the Milwaukee Health Department, initial symptoms may resemble a common cold, including a runny nose or mild fever. However, individuals experiencing worsening symptoms should consider the possibility of pertussis. "There’s a lot of pertussis cases in Wisconsin," noted Dr. Greg DeMuri, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at UW Health, emphasizing the unusual rise in infections.
Children and teenagers represent nearly half of the confirmed cases, raising particular concern for vulnerable populations, especially infants under one year old who are at higher risk for severe illness. While vaccinated individuals typically experience milder symptoms, DeMuri warned of the potential for a prolonged cough, often referred to as the "100-day cough," which can linger for up to three months.
Health experts strongly recommend that individuals, particularly those presenting symptoms, seek testing and treatment from healthcare providers to help curb further spread of the disease. Vaccination is also strongly advised to protect both individuals and the communities at large from this serious infection.
As whooping cough cases continue to rise, public health officials urge vigilance in monitoring symptoms and ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date to safeguard against this respiratory threat.
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