Highly Contagious 100-Day Cough Surges in Minnesota

Minnesotans are being advised to take extra precautions this winter as cases of whooping cough, often called the “100-day cough,” are surging across the state. The Minnesota Department of Health has reported 2,324 cases in 2024, a sharp increase from just 33 cases the previous year.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that often begins with cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, fever, and a mild cough. After a week or two, symptoms can worsen, leading to severe coughing fits, fatigue, and even vomiting.
According to the CDC, the infection can primarily affect infants who haven’t completed their vaccinations, as well as teenagers and adults with waning immunity. For many, the cough can persist for weeks or even months, leading to its nickname, the “100-day cough.”
Health officials recommend the following steps to help protect yourself and others:
• Get a Tdap booster shot every 10 years, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
• Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
• Stay home if you feel unwell to avoid spreading the illness.
If you or a loved one are experiencing prolonged coughing symptoms, health experts advise contacting your doctor for testing and treatment options.
For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Health website or the CDC’s pertussis page.
AP Citation:
“Highly Contagious 100-Day Cough Surging in Minnesota,” Fun 104.3, January 13, 2025.