Kansas health officials are closely monitoring a significant surge in whooping cough cases across the state this year. This sudden increase in case numbers is one of the largest seen in nearly a decade.
According to Jill Bronaugh, spokeswoman for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), there has been a noticeable increase in pertussis, or whooping cough, cases since the late summer of 2024. This rise in cases is not limited to Kansas alone but is being observed nationwide, with numbers nearing record levels as we approach the end of the year.
According to Bronaugh, there has been a surge in the number of reported whooping cough cases, reaching the highest level since 2015. This upward trend is not only confined to a specific region but is being observed on a national scale. Preliminary data indicates that there are more than six times the number of cases compared to the same period last year.
According to Bronaugh, as of December 18, a total of 246 cases of whooping cough have been confirmed. Back on September 17, the KDHE had already issued a warning regarding the rising number of cases, stating that as of September 13, there were 98 confirmed cases of pertussis, compared to just 41 cases at the same time last year.
According to Bronaugh, the KDHE has been actively communicating with the healthcare community to address the rising number of pertussis cases. The department’s primary aim is to raise awareness about pertussis and encourage its consideration during the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory illnesses. Moreover, the KDHE provides guidance on the proper isolation and treatment for individuals infected with pertussis, as well as identifying those at high risk for the illness to ensure they receive necessary preventive care.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, whooping cough symptoms typically begin with a runny or stuffy nose, a mild fever, and an occasional cough. However, individuals who are infected with pertussis may experience more severe symptoms approximately one to two weeks after the initial signs appear. These symptoms can persist for several weeks and may include:
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- Coughing fits.
- Vomit during or after coughing fits.
- Feeling tired during or after coughing fits.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Struggling to breathe.
- Broken ribs caused by coughing fits.
According to the CDC and KDHE, young children are at the highest risk of contracting whooping cough infections. It is particularly concerning for babies, as they may develop a life-threatening condition known as apnea, which can cause them to stop breathing.
According to Bronaugh, infants under the age of one are most vulnerable to contracting whooping cough and experiencing severe complications. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as immunocompromising conditions and moderate to severe medically treated asthma, are also at high risk of developing a severe infection.
According to Bronaugh, individuals who have contracted whooping cough can spread the bacteria for several weeks even after the onset of coughing if left untreated. In some cases, people may only experience mild symptoms and be unaware that they have whooping cough, yet still have the ability to transmit it to others.
According to Bronaugh, the most effective approach to avoid whooping cough is through vaccination. It is advised that individuals receive the pertussis vaccine at least once, and possibly more frequently based on factors such as age and pregnancy.
In situations where there is contact with someone who has whooping cough, it may be recommended to take antibiotics as a preventive measure. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, particularly during respiratory illness season, can significantly reduce the transmission of various bacteria and viruses, including pertussis.
If you suspect that you have contracted whooping cough, the KDHE advises seeking medical attention from a healthcare professional for testing, diagnosis, and treatment. To learn more about the importance of vaccination against whooping cough, you can click here.