Babe, wake up. A new PS-Flu just dropped.

Several cases of pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, have been reported at Penn State’s University Park campus since mid-March 2024. According to a release, five cases have been confirmed while six are listed as “probable.”

Whooping cough has been on the rise nationally. Within Pennsylvania, 601 cases have been reported since May 25, a 465% increase from the same period in 2023.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease spread through coughing, sneezing, and encountering things with bacteria on their surfaces. Symptoms are often similar to a common cold — runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever, and mild cough. Coughing gradually becomes more severe, and vomiting can sometimes occur at the end of an episode.  

Adults are encouraged to be vaccinated with Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis — known as Tdap — for whooping cough every 10 years. Penn State students are advised not to share food or drinks, to wash their hands, and to schedule an appointment with University Health Services (UHS) if they have symptoms of whooping cough.

Penn State students who are sick and unsure if they should see a clinician can call the UHS 24/7 advice nurse line at 814-865-4847 and press option three. Students can schedule an appointment via myUHS or call 814-865-4847. For more information on pertussis, visit the PADOH website.