The health department issued a warning Thursday about a significant increase in whooping cough cases among children throughout McHenry County.
The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reported a significant increase in pertussis, also known as whooping cough, cases and said they are mainly occurring among school-aged children throughout the county.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory disease and early recognition and treatment are “crucial” to preventing its spread, health officials said.
Pertussis can start with mild symptoms like a runny nose, low-grade fever and cough.
The cough progresses to intense coughing fits, sometimes accompanied by vomiting, a high-pitched “whoop” sound, exhaustion and even pauses in breathing.
The health department said the severity and course of the disease can vary based on age and vaccination history.
Infants, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness, hospitalization or even death.
Pertussis spreads through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, especially in close-contact settings like school classrooms, health officials said.
Frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes are important prevention steps.
The health department said anyone who develops symptoms should consult a healthcare provider and parents are encouraged to inform their child’s school if a child is diagnosed with pertussis.
Those diagnosed with whooping cough are recommended to take the prescribed antibiotic for five days and remain isolated until the five-day antibiotic treatment has been completed.
The cough associated with pertussis can persist for weeks or months even with treatment, the health department said, adding that vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against the disease.