MOUNT PLEASANT, IOWA (AP) -- Public health officials say whooping cough has shown up in Henry County in southeast Iowa.
The Hawk Eye in Burlington says four cases of the infectious disease have been confirmed, all among students.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, starts with cold-like symptoms, but within a week or two, patients develop uncontrollable coughing spells. These coughs are accompanied by the telltale whooping sound as the patient gasps for air.
Linda Albright with the county health department in Mount Pleasant says people need to make sure they are current on their vaccinations.
Cases of whooping cough have also been reported in Scott County, Clinton, Camanche and Council Bluffs.
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