There have been proven cases of whooping cough in West Virginia and Ohio

CABELL COUNTY, W.Va. — Healthcare workers have reported cases of whooping cough in West Virginia and Ohio.

According to the Marshall Health Network, there have been four cases recorded at Hurricane High School, with more cases found in Cabell County and Lawrence County, Ohio.

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious infection of the respiratory system. It mainly affects people who are not protected and those with weak immune systems.

Marshall Health said local departments are investigating the outbreaks and post-exposure prophylaxis will be utilized to avoid additional cases.

Symptoms usually show up 5 to 10 days after coming into contact with the germs and can resemble a common cold, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC says that mild signs can last up to two weeks and may include a runny nose, low fever, and cough.

One to two weeks after symptoms start, you may experience severe coughing, tiredness, sickness, and trouble sleeping. People harmed may have symptoms for over two months.