LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) - The Kentucky Department of Health says there has been an increase in pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, in the past few weeks.

So far in 202, there have been 566 reported cases across 93 counties in Kentucky, marking the highest total since 2012.

In Jefferson County, the number of pertussis cases is also on the rise:

2023: 2 total cases, 2 confirmed.

2024: 47 total cases, 39 confirmed and 8 probable.

2025 to date: 41 total cases, 36 confirmed and 5 probable.

Pertussis is a bacterial illness that causes severe coughing spells that can last for weeks or months.

The disease can become deadly for those who have immunity problems and infants.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent pertussis. The vaccine for children is known a

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