Whooping Cough Still a Problem In Kittitas County

A second student at Cle Elum Roslyn Elementary School has been diagnosed with pertussis, or whooping cough. There are now 11 confirmed cases of pertussis this year in Kittitas County. In addition to the confirmed cases, there are 17 probable cases for a grand total of 28.

The Kittitas County Health Officer has issued a health order to exclude students, staff, and volunteers from Cle Elum Roslyn Elementary School and Walter Strom Middle School for at least 21 days if they are not up-to-date on their pertussis vaccinations. Kittitas County Public Health Department has initiated an investigation to stop the potential spread of the illness, and is in the process of contacting individuals who may have been in close contact with the student.