Pertussis, or whooping cough, cases continue to increase in Iowa. The Department of Public Health says that cases are up 432 percent compared to the five-year average. Almost 700 people have been diagnosed with whooping cough thus far, compared to total yearly average of 129 over the past five years. Adults and children are both susceptible. Judi Van Hulzen, a nurse at Marion County Public Health, says the disease usually starts with cold-like symptoms.

Severe coughing begins after one-to-weeks, and Van Hulzen adds pertussis is very contagious. Marion County Public Health does have free vaccinations available for adults and their families 19 and older who meet income requirements. Call 828-2238.