HUTCHINSON, Kan. – The number of suspected pertussis cases in Reno County has increased by another five in just one week.

According to the Reno County Health Department, the number of cases has increased from 18 on June 2 to 23 as of Monday. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is highly contagious and the health department is again stressing that if you have a persistent cough for no apparent reason that you get checked by a doctor immediately. Pertussis can be especially serious on the very young or the frail and elderly.

If you need any more information, you can contact your doctor or the Reno County Health Department at 620-694-2900.