Officials with the Tioga County Health Department say multiple cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, have been reported in the county.

Early symptoms include runny nose or nasal congestion, low-grade fever (less than 100.4 degrees), mild, occasional cough (babies do not do this), apnea (life-threatening pauses in breathing), and cyanosis (turning blue or purple in babies and young children.

These can last for one to two weeks. In its early stages, whooping cough appears to be nothing more than the common cold, hence doctors often don't suspect or diagnose it until more severe symptoms appear.

These symptoms include rapid, violent, and uncontrolled coughing fits, that can last from one to six weeks, but can last for up to 10 weeks. Coughing fits can cause people to make a high-pitched "whoop" sound when they are finally able to inhale at the end of a fit, vomit during or after fits, feeling tired after the fit, but seem well in-between fits, and struggling to breathe.

Those who are experiencing symptoms are advised to stay home from work or school and avoid close contact with others. Do not share personal items. If you have concerns about yourself or someone else in your house showing signs of the virus, contact your healthcare provider, and make sure you are up to date on your vaccines.