INDEPENDENCE - Public health officials today revealed additional cases of whooping cough have been diagnosed in Buchanan County.

As of Friday, the number of confirmed cases was at 11.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is highly contagious, and representatives of the Buchanan County Public Health Department are contacting people possibly at risk because of exposure. According to officials, they have talked with more than 300 individuals.

Pertussis features a prolonged harsh cough accompanied by cold-like symptoms.

To be evaluated, call the Buchanan County Health Center at (319) 332-0860. For information about whooping cough, go to www.idph.state.ia.us/adper/pertussis.asp.