Health officials are urging Kentuckians to check their vaccination records as cases of pertussis — commonly known as whooping cough — continue to rise across the state. The illness is highly contagious and poses the greatest risk to infants and young children, especially in communities with low immunization rates.
Whooping cough can take up to a month to show symptoms, allowing the infection to spread before families realize someone is sick. Early signs often resemble a mild cold and are easily mistaken for other respiratory illnesses. As the infection progresses, it can lead to severe, repetitive coughing fits that make it difficult to breathe, eat, or sleep. Health providers say recovery can take weeks or even months, and complications can be life-threatening for young children.
Officials recommend that anyone experiencing a cough lasting longer than one to two weeks get tested. Prompt diagnosis and treatment help reduce the spread of the illness, especially to those who are most vulnerable.
Vaccination remains the safest and most effective protection against whooping cough. Families are encouraged to contact their healthcare providers to ensure they are up to date on all recommended immunizations.
