Washington state sees a sharp rise in whooping cough cases, reaching nearly 1,200, up from 51 last year.

Washington state reports a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with nearly 1,200 cases as of November 2, compared to 51 cases last year. The outbreak has affected 31 counties, with 28 hospitalizations, including 12 infants under one. Grant County alone has seen 60 cases, and Spokane County reports 123 cases, primarily among young children. Health officials link the increase to declining vaccination rates and urge residents to stay up to date with their pertussis vaccinations, particularly pregnant women and caregivers of young children.

November 12, 2024
26 Articles

Further Reading