Whooping cough cases in Illinois have reached levels not seen in two decades, the state’s Department of Public Health said Monday. [Health News Illinois]

There were 408 cases of whooping cough, otherwise known as pertussis, reported in October, more than double the number in October 2023 and the highest monthly total since 2004.

Illinois has seen more than 1,900 confirmed and probable cases of pertussis this year, according to preliminary data. It’s the highest number of cases reported in a year since 2012.

Department Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said the rise is a “cause for concern and IDPH is monitoring this increase closely throughout the state.”

The state has sent three health alerts in recent months to local health departments and providers to flag the rise in cases and urge vigilance about identifying cases and reporting them within 24 hours of diagnosis.

The uptick is part of a national trend. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a six-fold increase in cases this fall compared to last year, after the number of cases dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

IDPH also said Monday that the overall respiratory illness level in the state remains low. Vohra cautioned that a rise is expected in the coming weeks due to the holiday season and more indoor gatherings.

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