Public health officials are responding to a pertussis outbreak at Washington State University.
There are 18 reported cases of pertussis — also known as whooping cough — in Whitman County as of Oct. 8, officials from Whitman County Public Health said in a news release. All but one of those came from WSU.
The agency advises those with diagnosed cases to isolate themselves until they complete a five-day course of antibiotics. Isolation involves staying home from work, school or other public places.
The public health agency said there is no outbreak occurring outside of WSU but has advised residents to take preventive measures, including talking to a health provider after close contact with someone diagnosed with pertussis, staying updated on pertussis immunizations and practicing good hygiene, including covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing and washing hands frequently.
Pertussis is a respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. The disease spreads through small drops of saliva from one’s mouth or nose when one sneezes. Spread is more likely to occur among those who live together or spend a lot of time outdoors.
