There've been 26 confirmed cases of whooping cough so far this year, and roughly two-thirds of those have been in Fremont County. That's according to the Wyoming Department of Health. Wyoming logged 148 cases last year, which was the highest count in over 70 years. The department said actual case numbers are likely higher because people might not recognize the symptoms or report their illness. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can be especially harmful to infants. The illness typically starts off like a common cold with a mild cough. But after a week or two, that mild cough becomes persistent, violent and potentially deadly for babies. About one in three babies who are less than a year old need to get treatment at a hospital when they develop whooping cough, according to the CDC.
In a social media landscape shaped by hashtags, algorithms, and viral posts, nurse leaders must decide: Will they let the narrative spiral, or can they adapt and join the conversation?
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