NCPHD warns that pertussis (whooping cough) is spreading near Sherman County

North Central Public Health District's (NCPHD) Health Officer Dr. Kathleen Wilder is warning Wasco and Sherman County residents to be aware that pertussis is spreading in the community.

Pertussis, also called whooping cough, is a contagious illness that can cause weeks, or even months, of coughing. Pertussis is most dangerous for children less than 1 year old. This has been a big year for pertussis. Already this year, more people in Oregon have tested positive for pertussis than in any year since 2018. In the past month, several people in Hood River and Wasco counties tested positive for pertussis.

This is a good time to make sure your family is up to date on all your vaccinations, including pertussis. As always, if you are sick, stay home. If you think you or a family member might have pertussis, see your doctor. For more information about pertussis and pertussis vaccines, visit www.cdc.gov/pertussis/vaccines or call NCPHD at (541) 506-2600.