UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore.-A Pertussis outbreak in Umatilla County has expanded to 21 confirmed and suspected cases.
Pertussis, also known as Whooping Cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through coughing and sneezing, and the Umatilla County Public Health Department (UCoH) is now informing the community of the outbreak reported among people of various ages throughout the county.
“We are actively collaborating with school districts and other impacted facilities to promptly notify, contain the pertussis outbreak, and protect the health of our residents,” said Joseph Fiumara, Public Health Director at UCoH.
Pertussis symptoms are similar to those of a cold, which can often lead to the unintentional spread of the respiratory disease, however, it can cause severe illness in infants, children, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems.
“Pertussis poses a significant risk to newborns and infants,” said Dr. Amjad Mahfoud, a Pediatrician with Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS).
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of Pertussis. Anyone who is unsure of their vaccination status should check with their primary care provider.
“One effective way to protect newborns and infants is by ensuring that pregnant mothers receive the vaccine a few weeks prior to delivery,” said Dr. Mahfoud. “It is equally important for fathers and other adults who will have close contact with the newborn to be vaccinated. Additionally, adolescents should receive a booster dose of the vaccine around the age of 11 to maintain protection.”
According to UcoH, parents and community members should watch for symptoms such as a cough or runny nose that turn into prolonged coughing, difficulty breathing, vomiting and exhaustion.
“One of the most crucial actions is to seek testing as soon as symptoms appear,” said Vivienne Evans, NP, a Nurse Practitioner with Good Shepherd Primary Care. “Delaying testing increases the risk of spreading the illness.”
Anyone who develops symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately and stay home if officially diagnosed with Pertussis.
UcoH plans to continue to monitor the outbreak and published a free “Pocket Guide to Pertussis” online to help keep the community informed.
“Vaccination, early detection, and prompt treatment are critical in halting the spread of this disease,” said Fiumara.
GSHCS offers same-day appointments for both primary care and pediatrics patients in Hermiston.
