BENTON COUNTY, Wash. – The Benton-Franklin Health District confirmed two cases of B. pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in Benton County.
The report follows other counties reporting their own rises in cases, including Walla Walla County with one case and Grant County with 28.
As of Aug. 10, 2024, BFHD says that 555 cases of pertussis have been reported in Washington, compared to 37 in the same period in 2023.
“Pertussis can be a deadly infection, especially for vulnerable populations such as babies,” said Deputy Health Officer Heather Hill, RN, BSN. “This is a reminder to make sure you and your family are up to date with your vaccine to prevent pertussis.”
Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Infants are at higher risk, with one in three infected infants requiring hospitalization.
Early whooping cough symptoms resemble a common cold and get more severe as it progresses. Sudden, intense and uncontrollable coughing spells followed by a distinctive “whoop” are common and can continue for weeks.
To stay safe from whooping cough, BFHD says to stay up to date on vaccinations, practice good hygiene and seek medical care if symptoms are present.
