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Public Health Alert:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dated: March 14, 2025

Media Contact:
Name: Paula Lamas, Communications Coordinator
Office: 541-567-3113 Ext: 3143
Email: paula.lamas@umatillahealth.gov

UCo Health Informs Community of Pertussis Outbreak in Umatilla County
21 Cases Reported Across Multiple Regions and Age Groups

Umatilla County, OR - March, 12^th 2025 – UCo Health is informing the community about an ongoing pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak in Umatilla County, with 21 reported cases, including both confirmed and additional suspect cases. These cases have been identified across multiple regions of the county and span individuals of various age groups.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. While it can cause severe illness, especially in infants, young children, and those with weakened immune systems, many individuals in this situation experience only mild symptoms similar to those of the common cold. Because of this, pertussis can often go undiagnosed and unintentionally spread to others who may be more vulnerable.

What Parents and Community Members Need to Know:

Symptoms to Watch For: Mild cold-like symptoms (such as a runny nose and mild cough) in the early stages. This can develop into prolonged coughing fits, sometimes with a "whooping" sound, difficulty breathing, vomiting after coughing, and exhaustion.
Who’s at Risk? Infants, pregnant women, unvaccinated individuals, and those with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of severe illness.
Prevention is Key: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent pertussis. If you are unsure about your pertussis vaccination status, please contact your primary healthcare provider for assistance.

What to Do If You or Your Child Have Symptoms:

If you or your child develop symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Those diagnosed with pertussis may need antibiotics and should stay home to prevent further spread.

"We are actively collaborating with school districts and other impacted facilities to promptly notify, contain the pertussis outbreak, and protect the health of our residents," said Joseph Fiumara, Public Health Director at UCo Health. "Vaccination, early detection, and prompt treatment are critical in halting the spread of this disease."

UCo Health will continue monitoring the outbreak and providing updates as needed.

For more information on pertussis symptoms, prevention, and vaccine availability, please visit Oregon Health Authority website or call UCo Health at 541-278-6290

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