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The Macon County Health Department confirms a case of whooping cough (pertussis) in the community. Whooping cough can be a serious illness, especially in young, unvaccinated children. Symptoms of whooping cough begin with a runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, and possibly a low-grade fever. After a week or two a persistent cough develops that may end in a high-pitched whoop and vomiting. This can be a vaccine preventable disease and we ask that you verify your family’s immunization records to make sure you are up to date on Dtap/Tdap vaccine. If you highly suspect someone has pertussis, seek medical care immediately or contact the Macon County Health Department at 660-395-4711 to speak with a nurse for further recommendations.