Whooping Cough Cases Rise in Wisconsin: What You Need to Know

Sometimes a sound can tell you a lot about a situation. A loud bang might indicate something has fallen or crashed. A booming sound in the air could mean a plane or another flying object is overhead.

But, some sounds signal that trouble is ahead, like the unmistakable “whoop” of whooping cough.

What is Whooping Cough?

Unity Point Health states that whooping cough, or pertussis, is a serious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It is characterized by the distinctive whooping sound that occurs when a person gasps for air, along with bouts of uncontrollable coughing.

They claim that the sound is most noticeable in young children, and the illness can last for 2 to 3 months, typically progressing in stages, with coughing becoming more intense over time.

Wisconsin is Seeing a Rise in Whooping Cough

A recent report from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is highlighting a significant rise in cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, in the state of Wisconsin.

Here are some key takeaways from the report:

• Increase in Pertussis Cases - Pertussis cases are rising to levels seen before the pandemic, with 2,527 confirmed cases reported as of January 10, 2025. This includes cases in 71 of the state's counties.
• Age Group Affected - Pertussis can affect people of all ages.  Nearly half (49%) of the reported cases are among adolescents aged 11 to 18. Babies, the report said, are particularly vulnerable, with 100 infants diagnosed, and 14 of them needing hospitalization.  So far, no deaths have been reported
• Symptoms - In the early stages, pertussis may resemble a cold, with a low-grade fever and a slight cough. As the cough worsens, it can make breathing difficult, cause vomiting, and produce a whooping sound during inhalation. Babies may not cough, but could experience apnea, which is a pause in breathing. These symptoms can lead to severe complications, especially in infants.
• Prevention and Vaccination - The best way to prevent pertussis or lessen its severity is to stay up to date with vaccinations.   The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)  recommends:

DTaP vaccine for children (ages 2 months to 6 years)

Tdap vaccine for adolescents (ages 11-12), adults, and pregnant people (during each pregnancy between 27 to 36 weeks).

Residents are encouraged to check immunization records through Wisconsin's Immunization Registry (WIR) or consult their healthcare provider if the records can't be accessed.  

• How to Prevent the Spread - Good hygiene practices. All kids have those, so it shouldn't be a problem.  Avoid touching your face and stay home when you're sick, as these habits can help reduce the spread of pertussis.
• What to Do if You Think You Have Pertussis - It's important to seek medical attention early if you or someone you know shows signs of pertussis.

Is Wisconsin Getting All Its Vaccinations?

A CDC report from October 2024 reveals that Wisconsin families are lagging behind other states in vaccinating their children against preventable diseases. This could explain why whooping cough is on the rise in the state.

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