The Arkansas Department of Health reported a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with more than five times as many cases this year compared to 2023. The increase is mainly seen among children and teenagers, as stated in the department’s news release.
In 2024, over thirty counties in Arkansas have reported at least one case of whooping cough, a disease also known as pertussis. This rise in cases aligns with a broader national trend of increased pertussis occurrences.
The disease often starts with symptoms similar to the common cold, including a mild cough, runny nose, and sometimes a fever. After one to two weeks, individuals can experience severe coughing fits that may persist for up to ten weeks.
Whooping cough spreads through coughing or sneezing when in close contact with others, making it highly contagious. The recent increase in cases highlights the importance of preventive measures, such as vaccination, to control its spread.
