Whooping cough cases continue to rise

COLFAX — Cases in whooping cough went up by eight cases last week.

According to Whitman County Public Health the local pertussis, also known as “Whooping Cough”, outbreak has now reached 85 people and includes four cases identified within two elementary schools.

Health officials are asking everyone to cover their mouth when they sneeze and cough, stay home when they are sick, wash their hands often and get vaccinated against pertussis.

Those whose are most susceptible to contacting pertussis include infants under 1-year-old, pregnant women, those with pre-existing health conditions and elderly adults.

Those who contract pertussis may have symptoms similarly to a common cold, however a cough may persist for several weeks.