Alerts:  Nov. 12, 2024: Pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak confirmed in Spokane County. SRHD urges parents and pregnant people to vaccinate. Read the press release.

Pertussis Alert for Health Care Providers

Increased Pertussis Activity Continues in Spokane County - Oct. 4, 2024

Posted Oct. 4, 2024. Past health advisories and alerts are archived for historical purposes and are not maintained or updated.

Current Situation in Spokane and Washington State

A total of 780 cases of pertussis have been reported statewide as of 09/21/24, compared to 43 cases during the same time period in 2023. Cases have continued to rise in Spokane county, with 67 cases reported as of 9/30/24 (18 in September, 18 in August, and 17 in July). Reported case numbers are likely lower than actual case counts. Cases have varied vaccination status. Cases are being seen in infants, children and adults.

Action Requested

If you strongly suspect pertussis:

  • Test and Treat: Do not delay treatment while awaiting test results. CDC provides detailed treatment guidance.
  • Exclude: Tell the patient to stay home from work, school, or childcare. Advise them that they are considered contagious until they have completed 5 full days of appropriate antibiotics.
  • Report the illness to SRHD within 24 hours. Cases may be reported on the Communicable Disease report line at 509-324-1449 or faxed to 509-324-3623.
  • Prescribe postexposure antibiotic prophylaxis for the entire household.

Please reference CDC MMWR Pertussis Treatment and PEP Recommendations for antibiotic and dosage guidelines. Antibiotic recommendations are on page 5 in DOH’s Pertussis Reporting and Investigation Guideline

For more information, please reference our previous provider alerts: