WHITEFISH BAY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The North Shore Health Department is alerting the community about an increase in reported cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, on Friday, May 3. 

Whooping cough is a highly contagious raspatory disease that can be serious, especially for infants, young children, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Symptoms can include: 

• Initial cold-like symptoms like runny nose, mild cough, and sneezing.
• Progression to severe coughing spells, often accompanied by a distinctive high-pitched "whooping" sound, vomiting post-coughing fits, and profound exhaustion.
•  While infants may not exhibit the characteristic "whoop," they may struggle with breathing.

The health department says it's important to note that pertussis is preventable through vaccinations, and advises the following measures: 

•  Ensuring all children are up to date with their pertussis (DTaP) vaccinations.
•  Adults and adolescents (preferably at age 11 or 12) should get the Tdap booster vaccine.
•  Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy.

The Wisconsin Immunization Registry can be checked regarding questions about vaccination statuses. The health department recommends anyone, or anyone's child begin to exhibit symptoms of pertussis to contact a healthcare provider right away. 

For more information on pertussis and vaccination protocols, click here.