Whatcom County Health and Community Services officials are warning of a rise of whooping cough, or pertussis, in the county.
There have been eight confirmed cases since the beginning of the month, with five cases documented since Monday, Oct. 21. Several additional cases are pending and expected to be confirm.
“Whooping cough is so contagious that it occurs in clusters. It can make babies seriously ill. People with lung conditions or immunocompromised are also at higher risk,” said Dr. Amy Harley, Health Officer for Whatcom County Health and Community Services. “Anyone who was exposed and starts to have even mild symptoms should contact their doctor right away.”
Most of the cases have occurred within large families and exposure happened at gatherings attended by school-aged children, according to WCHCS. Letters have been sent to families who attended the gatherings and those who tested positive are being provided education and treatment options.
Individuals who’ve been exposed to whooping cough and have symptoms including a persistent cough are urged to stay home until they’ve been treated by a health care provider, according to WCHCS. The illness is dangerous for young children, pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems.
One way to protect against whooping cough is having up-to-date vaccinations. DTaP and Tdap vaccines are available for children and adults, according to WCHCS. Children between the ages of 2 months and 6 years should receive DTaP vaccines in multiple doses. Teens and adults who’ve not been vaccinated should receive the Tdap vaccine.
Free vaccines are available for children under 18 in Whatcom County, though an office visit or administration fee may apply.
“Vaccination is the best way to protect against this illness, and it’s important for everyone, not just kids.” said Harley. “Many people fell behind on routine vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, so I encourage parents and caregivers to make sure kids are up to date on routine vaccines, and for everyone to take a moment to check their pertussis vaccination status.”
For people who test positive for whooping cough, they can be treated with antibiotics and people considered a high-risk close contact can be given preventative medicine.
WCHCS recommends wearing masks, washing hands and staying home if feeling sick to help prevent the spread of whooping cough, as well as the flu and COVID.
Annie Todd is CDN’s criminal justice/enterprise reporter; reach her at annietodd@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.
