Pertussis Information Flyer

Pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak in Idaho

Steven Gardner

December 19, 2024

We are reaching out to you to ensure you are aware of the current pertussis (also known as whooping cough) outbreak in the state of Idaho.

Here are some facts about pertussis that can help you be prepared to fight this contagious infection. 

Pertussis is a respiratory illness that begins with symptoms like a cold (i.e. running nose, congestion, may have a low fever); however, as it progresses it causes coughing that can last for months, as well as induce coughing fits that can make it difficult to breathe and, in some cases, can lead to hospitalization (CDC, 2024). Babies under the age of one are at the greatest risk of getting whooping cough and having severe complications. People with asthma or immunocompromised conditions are also at high risk (CDC, 2024).  

We wanted to reach out to parents and our community and notify you of the pertussis outbreak that is occurring in Idaho and encourage you to take these actions: 

  1. Talk with your medical providers to see if your child(ren) are up to date on their vaccines, including the pertussis vaccine. The pertussis vaccines significantly reduce the chance of getting pertussis. While vaccinated people can still get pertussis, the vaccine can help reduce the severity of the disease.  

  2. If there are sick members of the household who have a cough, encourage them to see their medical provider to get tested for pertussis.  

  3. If someone tests positive for pertussis, the person and their entire family need to be treated. Treatment can also lessen the severity of the disease.  


    STAY WELL!