Iowa facing highest number of whooping cough cases since 2019

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – From a runny nose to a persistent, wheezing cough, whooping cough, also known as pertussis, can leave anyone feeling miserable.

As of Tuesday morning, Iowa Health and Human Services officials say they confirmed 73 cases in the state this year.

While that number is lower than it was from 2015 to 2019, it’s the highest it’s been since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We know from our state and federal partners that, from time to time, pertussis happens cyclically, so this may be the case where we’re seeing an increase in cases.” said Sam Jarvis, Johnson County Public Health’s Community Health Manager.

Considering whooping cough primarily affects people under age 20, Jarvis expects back-to-school season to have an impact on these numbers.

But because Iowa schools require students to get the pertussis vaccine, it’s adults and infants he’s most worried about.

“The other challenge that we see is access. So, folks don’t have insurance…Obviously, it’s very difficult to get vaccinations.” he said.

He says Johnson County Public Health is hoping to offer an adult vaccine program soon, but until then, it’s important for everyone to protect themselves in other ways – especially if they’re unvaccinated.

“Since this is a respiratory illness, a lot of the same things that we’ve been promoting and you will see us promote going into the fall for Respiratory illness season: Covering our cough, washing our hands and staying home when we’re ill are extremely important. We can’t emphasize that enough.” said Jarvis.

For those who do contract whooping cough, you can report it by calling Iowa Health and Human Services.

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