The University of Wisconsin-Madison reported a rise in whooping cough cases on campus, with more than 20 students diagnosed with the illness since September, University Health Services (UHS) said in an email to students Wednesday.
The number of cases of whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness, has been increasing nationwide, and case numbers are twice as high this year compared to 2023, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness that can last for weeks or months. It may begin like a common cold. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, fever, shortness of breath and a persistent cough with violent coughing fits. It’s especially severe for those with underlying medical conditions like asthma, according to UHS.
UHS is offering Tdap vaccines, which help prevent whooping cough, and is asking students to reach out if they have symptoms or are concerned they may have been exposed. Students can contact University Health Services at 608-265-5600 to speak with a nurse for further guidance, testing and treatment if needed.
Ella Hanley is the associate news editor for The Daily Cardinal. She has written breaking, city, state and campus news. Follow her on Twitter at @ellamhanley.
