SHAWANO, WI- After a decline during the pandemic, cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, are on the rise across the United States. Health experts attribute the increase to the relaxation of preventative measures like masking and social distancing. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports 662 confirmed cases of pertussis in 2024, as of September 20, with cases seen in 49 counties.
In Outagamie County, public health officials have reported seven confirmed cases since August, with a total of eight for the year. This marks a significant rise from 2020, when the county had just four cases. All recent cases have been in children.
Dr. Sharon Rink, a pediatrician with ThedaCare, notes that many cases involve older children whose immunity from vaccines is waning, as well as infants who are not fully vaccinated.
Pertussis, a highly contagious bacterial disease, spreads through saliva from coughing or sneezing. While older children and adults typically experience milder symptoms, the disease can be life-threatening for infants. Health officials recommend vaccination to protect against pertussis, particularly for infants and those in close contact with them.
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