HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — Reno County authorities continue to monitor the number of suspected cases of whooping cough in the county.

The Hutchinson News reports the county has 102 suspected cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. So far, Kansas has confirmed 71 cases in the county, with the last confirmed case initially reported Aug. 6.

Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti says he’s cautiously optimistic the outbreak may be waning, and he’s hopeful that’s the case because school is starting.

Baldetti says officials want teachers and school staff to be vigilant monitoring students and to contact the department with any suspected cases of whooping cough, which is contagious and characterized by intense coughing, fever and runny nose.