Department of Health confirms 4 cases of whooping cough in last month

WOOODSTOCK – The McHenry County Department of Health has confirmed four cases of whooping cough within the past 30 days, the health department said in a news release Thursday.

Those identified with whooping cough, – a highly contagious condition transmitted through coughing, talking and sneezing – include two elementary school-aged children and two adults from Algonquin, Cary and Woodstock. All four are being treated with antibiotics, the health department said.

The health department typically reports up to 10 cases a year of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. The recent cases are a cause for concern given the recent outbreak of 38 confirmed cases of whooping cough in Winnebago County, the health department said.

Early diagnosis is key to treating the condition and stopping its spread, according to the health department. An infected person is contagious from just before symptoms begin to 21 days after symptoms occur, although treatment with antibiotics can shorten the period to five days, the health department said.

The first symptoms are similar to a common cold with numerous, rapid coughs that gradually become more severe.

Anyone exhibiting these symptoms should contact a healthcare provider immediately, the health department said. For information on pertussis, its symptoms and recommended immunization shots, visit www.mcdh.info or call MCDH’s Communicable Disease Division at 815-334-4500.

– Jim Butts