Whooping Cough Cases Up in Washtenaw Co.

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, has become an epidemic in Washtenaw County.  The number of cases reported this year is quickly approaching 200. That's 10 times higher than normal.

Whooping cough is a bacterial disease of the upper respiratory tract.

It's highly contagious, especially for kids who haven't been vaccinated or teens and adults who are vaccinated but may need a booster.

FOX 2's Monica Gayle talked to Dr. Robert Zaid from Providence Park Hospital in Novi about whooping cough.  Click on the video player to watch their conversation.

Click on this link for more information from the Washtenaw County Public Health Department.