Seven Cases Of Whooping Cough Reported In Yakima County

Yakima County Health District officials are working with the State Department of Health to combat an increase in whooping cough in the state.

Community Health Supervisor Diane Bock says last year at this time no cases were reported in Yakima County. But so far this, year seven cases have been reported.

"We're following each one and working with providers to make sure they keep whooping cough on the radar when someone comes in with a persistent cough," Bock says.

Statewide so far in 2015, the Washington State Department of Health says 319 cases of whooping cough reported, compared with 49 reported cases during the same time in 2014.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a serious disease that affects the respiratory system and is spread by coughing and sneezing. Authorities say it's important for people to get vaccinated -- especially pregnant women, because infants are too young to be immunized and rely on a mother's immunity.