Winneshiek County Public Health is warning the public about whooping cough

92 confirmed cases of whooping cough (pertussis) have been reported in Iowa so far this year--an 83 percent increase over the five-year average for the state.

The Winneshiek County Public Health Office says whooping cough cases have been reported in Winneshiek County.  Winneshiek County Public Health and local healthcare providers are working with affected individuals and close contacts.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection caused by bacteria. It causes severe coughing that can interfere with eating, drinking, and breathing. It is spread through the air after an infected person coughs or sneezes. Other people breathe in infected droplets. If you have a persistent cough lasting for 2-3 days, please contact your healthcare provider to be evaluated.

The symptoms of pertussis are that it starts as a cold with symptoms of runny nose and an irritating cough; within one to two weeks the cough develops into violent coughing fits when the victim struggles for breath; a high pitched whooping sound may follow the coughing; coughing is more frequent at night and may be followed by vomiting; between spells, the person may appear to be normal.  If you have a persistent cough, PLEASE avoid community activities if possible.

Affected individuals and their close contacts may be treated with an appropriate antibiotic which may help if given early in the illness. If you have symptoms and are placed on antibiotics, Iowa Department of Public Health guidelines instructs you to avoid social activities for five days and stay home.

If you have any questions regarding this illness, please contact your healthcare provider or Winneshiek County Public Health at (563) 382-4662.