YAKIMA — The Yakima Health District is monitoring the spread of whooping cough after three new cases were documented in Yakima County in the past week.
“We urge families to stay up to date on their Tdap vaccinations, remain alert for symptoms of pertussis, and prioritize staying home if feeling unwell,” said Melissa Sixberry, the Yakima Health District’s director of disease control.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, has been unusually bad in Washington this year. Thus far in 2024, there have been 1,436 reported cases. By the same time in 2023, there were 57, according to the state Department of Health.
Whooping cough can be serious, especially for vulnerable populations like infants, children and people with weaker immune systems, according to a health district news release. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
Including the three cases, there have been nine in Yakima County in 2024. It’s not categorized as an outbreak right now, according to the health district, but officials are monitoring the situation.
Symptoms
- Early stage (one to two weeks): Symptoms resemble a common cold, including mild cough, runny nose, sneezing and low-grade fever.
- Later stage: Prolonged and severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound during inhalation, vomiting after coughing or exhaustion from coughing episodes.
Recommendations
- Ensure that vaccinations are up to date: Adolescents and adults should receive the Tdap booster, while children should complete the DTaP vaccine series.
- Watch for symptoms: Seek medical attention if you or your loved ones develop prolonged coughing fits or other signs of pertussis.
- Stay home when feeling sick: This is crucial to protecting your family and the community during gatherings.
- Practice good hygiene: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing, and wash your hands frequently.
