Whitman County Public Health is investigating a pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak within the WSU student population, with five confirmed cases as of November 13. No cases have been reported in the broader community.
Pertussis is a respiratory illness spread through droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms begin with cold-like signs and develop into severe coughing spells, sometimes ending in gagging or vomiting. Infants under 12 months with preexisting health conditions are at the highest risk for serious complications.
Confirmed cases are asked to isolate until finishing five days of antibiotics. Residents should ensure they are up to date with pertussis immunizations (DTaP, Tdap) and practice good hand hygiene. Those who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with pertussis should talk to their healthcare provider.
More information and case counts are available on the Whitman County Public Health website.