— from San Juan County Health and Community Services —
San Juan County Health & Community Service continues to investigate new cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in the county. To date, six cases have been identified in children residing on San Juan Island. None of the children have been hospitalized. San Juan County Health & Community Services is working with the families of these children to investigate the pertussis cases, as well as with the schools the children attend.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection, and usually starts with mild cold symptoms or a cough, which turns into severe coughing spells. Infants and children can cough violently and rapidly, which can cause them to inhale with a loud “whooping” sound. If untreated, an infected person can spread pertussis for several weeks.
If you or a family member have symptoms of pertussis, please stay home and away from other people and public settings until you or your family member has been evaluated by your health care provider.
With pertussis in our county, influenza (flu) reaching epidemic levels in Washington state, and mumps cases in our region, now is a good time for individuals and family members to review vaccination records and ensure all immunizations are up to date.
If vaccinations are not up to date, or you have questions about vaccinations or pertussis, please contact your health care provider, or San Juan County Health & Community Services at 360-378-4474.
Additional information and resources on pertussis may be found on the San Juan County Health & Community Services website:
San Juan County Health & Community Services
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
