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Iowa has seen an increase in cases of Pertussis or Whooping Cough in the last year.  Chrystal Woller with Washington County Public Health says nine cases were reported last year over the previous year and 705 were reported statewide.  The statewide cases reported resulted in a 229 percent increase.

Woller says the symptoms of Pertussis mimic a cold, but will turn into a persistent cough.  She adds the symptoms are usually worse at night and are more severe in infants and children.

Woller says Whooping Cough is treated by taking a five-day regimen of antibiotics to be considered non-contagious.  She follows up to say that keeping up to date on vaccinations is the best way to avoid catching Pertussis.

For more information, contact your doctor or Washington County Public Health.