SPOKANE, Wash. — The Spokane Regional Health District is confirming an outbreak of pertussis in Spokane County.
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According to SRHD, 123 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, have been reported primarily among infants, toddlers, and school-aged children.
SRHD says while the bacteria that causes whooping cough may produce only a mild, persistent cough in adults, children exposed can face more severe complications.
Children who have not received their diphtheria, tetanus acellular, and pertussis vaccine (DTaP) are most vulnerable, and the disease could lead to asphyxia, brain damage and death.
More information about pertussis, prevention and treatment can be found at SRHD.org.
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