Wisconsin Sees Surge in Whooping Cough Cases, DHS Urges Vaccination

Madison, WI (WLIP)–The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is reporting a significant spike in pertussis cases, commonly known as whooping cough, with numbers returning to pre-pandemic levels.

Health officials are urging Wisconsinites to ensure they and their children are up to date on their pertussis vaccinations to help prevent the spread of the disease and reduce the risk of severe symptoms or hospitalization.

As of September 13, 2024, DHS has received reports of 625 confirmed pertussis cases statewide, a dramatic increase compared to just 51 cases in all of 2023.

The surge in infections is widespread, with two-thirds of Wisconsin’s counties reporting at least one case since the start of the year.

While anyone can contract pertussis, nearly half of the cases reported in 2024 involve children and teens aged 11 to 18.

“While it’s not uncommon for Wisconsin to experience higher numbers of whooping cough compared to other years, this year we have already seen more than 10 times the number of cases reported in 2023,” said Dr. Stephanie Schauer, DHS Immunization Program Manager.

She emphasized the seriousness of the illness, especially for young children.

“Whooping cough can be very serious, particularly for infants. The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay up to date on your vaccines.”

Pertussis is a serious respiratory illness that begins with mild cold-like symptoms but can progress into severe, prolonged coughing fits.

These episodes can cause difficulty breathing, gagging, or vomiting, and may be accompanied by a high-pitched “whoop” sound.

In some cases, pertussis can lead to complications such as pneumonia or even death, particularly in very young children or those with weakened immune systems.

People experiencing symptoms of pertussis are urged to stay home, seek medical advice, and, in severe cases, seek immediate medical care.

To combat the spread of the illness, DHS recommends vaccination as the most effective prevention strategy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers specific vaccination guidelines, which include five doses of the DTaP vaccine for children aged 2 months to 6 years, a Tdap booster for adolescents aged 11 to 12, and a dose of Tdap for adults who have never received the vaccine.

Pregnant women are also advised to receive a Tdap vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy to help protect their newborns.

Wisconsinites can access their immunization records through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR), or by contacting their healthcare provider or local health department.

Programs like Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults are available to help those without insurance or whose coverage does not include vaccines.

In addition to vaccination, the DHS encourages the public to follow everyday health practices to prevent the spread of germs.

These include washing hands regularly, staying home when sick, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

For more information on pertussis and vaccination, visit the DHS pertussis webpage.