For Thursday, Dec. 26, WGN's Jackie Bange and Jenna Barnes have the latest on new medical information, including:

Dangerous spike in whooping cough

Cases of whopping cough are rising across the US, reaching its highest level in a decade.

So far this year, more than 32,000 cases have been reported.

That's six times more than last year.

About one-fourth of all cases have been reported in the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.

Experts say getting vaccinated is the best protection.

They also say vaccination rates among children have dropped, and even protection from the vaccine can fade over time.

Northwest Naturals issues recall after bird flu virus found in raw & frozen cat food

A popular cat food brand is issuing a recall after at least one cat contracted bird flu and died.

Northwest Naturals, based in Portland, Oregon, recalls their two-pound raw and frozen feline-turkey cat food.

It was sold in Illinois and at least 11 other states.

Affected batches have 'best if used by dates' of May 21, 2026 and June 23, 2026.

Contact your vet immediately if your pet ate the recalled food and started displaying any strange symptoms.

FDA approves generic injectable for Type 2 diabetes

The FDA has approved a generic version of a daily injectable medicine for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Liraglutide is sold under the brand name Victoza.

It's in the same class as the active ingredient in Ozempic.

The branded drug costs between $500-$800 per package, depending on dosage.

The generic will open the door for lower-priced options and help address shortages.

The manufacturer expects to make it available nationwide before the end of the year.