ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) – Health officials warn of a local increase in respiratory illnesses.

Tompkins County Whole Health Department is reporting an increase in the number of cases of whooping cough and walking pneumonia. Both bacterial illnesses are on the rise nationally as well.  Though there have only been 13 cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, so far between January 2024 and the end of October 2024, there were zero at this time in 2023.

Whole Health says to seek treatment early if you develop any symptoms as both can be highly contagious.

More information on both whooping cough and walking pneumonia can be found here.