IDPH reminds people to get vaccinated, warns parents about surge of whooping cough cases

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Respiratory virus season is upon us, and the Illinois Department of Public Health is reminding people to get vaccinated. Overall illness remains low in Illinois, but that could change with families gathering for the holidays.

As the weather gets colder, there are more opportunities for you to get the flu, COVID-19 or RSV. IDPH Director Sameer Vohra told WAND News Thursday that people should get their shots as soon as possible.

"No one wants to be the cause of getting other people sick during a holiday celebration," Vohra said. "So, please, if you haven't already, get that vaccine if you are eligible."

Vohra said it takes about two weeks for vaccines to provide full protection. He notes that these shots are very important if you are over 65, immunocompromised or have chronic medical conditions.

"The great thing about vaccinations is that they're helping prevent that serious illness and hospitalizations," Vohra said. "We know that if you're older, if you're very young, if you're immunocompromised, that's the things that can cause those severe infections."

The department is also warning parents about the recent surge of whooping cough cases. There were 408 cases reported in October alone, more than double the amount of whooping cough cases in October 2023.

Vohra said Illinois has seen more than 1,900 confirmed and probable pertussis cases this year.

"They don't always present with that whooping cough that pertussis is known for, but something that in addition can cause kids to get sicker than the typical common colds that we generally also see this time of year," Vohra said.

Dr. Vohra noted people should talk with their healthcare providers to ensure kids are up to date on pertussis vaccinations. Older children and adults could also receive the Tdap vaccine to stay healthy.

"For those pregnant moms and pregnant persons, it's really important to make sure that you're getting those shots when you're pregnant, and those around you, to make sure that our little ones are most protected," Vohra said.

New COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots are recommended for anyone six months and older. Vohra said the RSV vaccine is recommended for everyone 75 and older.