The Fayette County Health Department reports 21 confirmed cases since late April, with 7 new cases in the last week.
Health officials say all central Kentucky caregivers should be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of the illness, which is considered highly contagious. The signs begin with stuffy nose, low grade fever, a mild cough, and sore throat.
Over a week or two, the coughing develops into the illness’s trademark rapid coughing, causing a "whooping" sound.
