The Oneida County Health Department is reporting an increase in whooping cough cases

RHINELANDER, Wis. (WSAW) – The Oneida County Health Department has reported an increase in whooping cough cases.

In a typical year, there may be only one case in the county, or sometimes no cases. Four cases have been confirmed since July. Both adults and children were affected.d

The early symptoms are similar to those of other respiratory diseases. You may experience a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, occasional cough and mild fever. Whooping cough can then progress into a more serious cough that can affect breathing, eating, and sleeping.

A person’s cough often ends with a “wheezing” sound when inhaling. Symptoms can last for several weeks or months and vary depending on age.

The disease can be prevented by washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. Coverage of all types of coughs, staying at home if sick or feverish and vaccinations.

Even if you are vaccinated, it is still possible to get whooping cough, although the likelihood is lower and the symptoms are usually milder.

Vaccines to protect against pertussis are available from your provider, some pharmacies and the Oneida County Health Department. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Oneida County Health Department at 715-369-6111.

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