CEDAR RAPIDS (KWWL) -
Linn County Public Health says they have seen a significant increase in whooping cough cases since May 1.
Officials say that more than 50 new cases have been reported since May 1 and most of them have been middle school aged kids.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, starts with symptoms similar to a common cold. Kids with pertussis often develop coughing fits that give a high pitched "whoop" sound.
The disease can impact people of all ages and is highly contagious. It can easily be spread through the air from a sick person during talking, sneezing or coughing.
"We are asking Linn County residents to double-check with their health care provider to ensure that they are up-to-date on vaccinations," said Pramod Dwivedi, Linn County Public Health Director, in a written statement. "It is vital that teens and adults get the Tdap booster. The increase in adult vaccination is critical because it protects our babies since they are too young to be fully vaccinated."
Whooping cough is preventable through vaccination. Children should have received the basic Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) immunization series through their family doctor. That series consists of four shots and should be completed by 15 months of age. Kids should also receive an additional dose of Tdap before they start school.
A pertussis booster is recommended for adults and children over 11 years of age.
Young children and pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing complications and requiring hospitalization due to whooping cough. While death is rare, they do occur, especially in infants less than one year of age.
If someone has whooping cough or is exposed to someone with it, they should call their doctor.
If you have symptoms and are prescribed antibiotics, you should not return to school or work for five days. You should also get plenty of rest and fluids to help the body recover.
