Whooping cough cases are on the rise in Whatcom County and across Washington
Whatcom County experienced a surge in whooping cough cases in October, following a trend that is being reported statewide.
Whooping cough — officially known as pertussis — is an illness that affects the lungs and airways, and spreads from person to person through the air, most commonly through sneezes or coughs.
Washington is currently seeing a large increase in whooping cough cases, and the case count (959 so far in 2024) is the fifth-highest the state has seen since the late 1950s, according to the state Department of Social and Health Services.
There have been 10 confirmed cases in Whatcom County this month, with seven new cases since Oct. 21, according to Marie Duckworth with Whatcom County Health and Community Services. There have been 12 new cases total in Washington state in the last week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Whooping cough is so contagious that it occurs in clusters,” said county health officer Dr. Amy Harley in a recent press release. “It can make babies seriously ill. People with lung conditions or immunocompromised are also at higher risk. Anyone who was exposed and starts to have even mild symptoms should contact their doctor right away.”
Whooping cough is commonly seen in large families, and there’s a heightened risk of exposure at child gatherings, although all ages can be affected.
The first symptoms are similar to a cold: runny nose, sneezing and a mild cough. However, it takes about a week for the cough to become more severe, leading to fits that could include gagging or vomiting.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should see a doctor and get tested, and until then remain at home and limit direct contact with other individuals.
Whooping cough is especially dangerous for young children, pregnant individuals and people with weakened immune systems.
Vaccinations against whooping cough are available in the form of the DTap and Tdap vaccine. Regular boosters are recommended as well for adults who have already received the vaccine.The Tdap vaccine is often included in the tetanus shot.
This story was originally published October 30, 2024 at 12:48 PM.
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