Michigan is seeing a rise in whooping cough cases around the state. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness that is most common in infants.
Michigan's Second District Health Department, which includes Alcona, Iosco, Ogemaw, and Oscoda counties, says they've seen a rise in cases across their region as well.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, between 2017 and 2019, Michigan averaged 596 cases of whooping cough. The department says this year alone, there have already been 830 confirmed or probable cases of the disease.
Community health director and epidemiologist, Scott Izzo is encouraging people to get their children up to date with vaccinations.
"The more people that are vaccinated, not only are they protected against the disease, but it helps prevent the spread of the disease. Meaning that it's less likely to travel further within our communities if we do start seeing cases" Izzo said.
Izzo recommends visiting the CDC’s website for more information on whooping cough.
