The Genesee County Health Department is warning of an increase in cases of pertussis — or whooping cough — in the area last year.
The health department is encouraging children to get vaccinated against the illness, which can result in serious illness or death in some patients.
Young children and infants are at the greatest risk of contracting whooping cough. The health department says they often get it from adolescents and adults.
Pertussis is spread commonly through sneezing and coughing. The incubation period from exposure to the onset of symptoms typically is seven to 10 days, but can be as long as three weeks.
Whooping cough mimics a common cold at the outset with sneezing, runny nose, mild dry cough and a low-grade fever. Longer, more serious coughing spells develop about a week or two later that can result in difficulty breathing.
Whooping cough gets its name from a high-pitched sound patients make as they try to take a breath during intense coughing spells. Gagging and vomiting also are common during coughing spells.
Most area physicians offer the pertussis vaccine or it can be obtained at the health department’s Burton Branch by calling 810-237-4540.