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The Texas County Health Department reported Friday that it is has two confirmed cases of Pertussis (whooping cough) in the county with more cases pending results.
Whooping cough is a very contagious respiratory illness. It may begin like a common cold, but unlike a cold, the coughing can last for weeks or months, it said.
It usually takes 5 to 10 days for symptoms to appear after exposure to the bacteria that cause whooping cough. Babies younger than 1 year old are at greatest risk for getting whooping cough and having severe complications from it. Whooping cough is a vaccine-preventable disease.
Things you can do to help prevent the spread of whooping cough:
• Make sure you and your family are immunized and your vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Stay home if you are sick and contact your healthcare provider if you are having symptoms.