Whooping Cough Confirmed at Schools in Nevada, Oregon Prompting Health Alerts

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, has been confirmed in Malheur County's Nyssa School District and at Coronado High School in Henderson, Nevada, prompting health alerts and precautionary measures. The Malheur County Health Department reported two confirmed cases and urged families to watch for symptoms such as severe coughing fits and to ensure vaccinations, including DTaP and Tdap boosters, are up to date. Similarly, the Southern Nevada Health District confirmed a case at Coronado High School, warning of potential exposure between September 15 and October 8, and advised parents to monitor for symptoms and contact healthcare providers if symptoms appear. Both health districts emphasized the importance of vaccination, especially for vulnerable populations like toddlers, preteens, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Parents in Henderson were also encouraged to consult healthcare providers for additional preventive steps and to report suspected cases to health authorities. The coordinated response highlights the need for vigilance, immunization, and prompt medical consultation to prevent the spread of pertussis within school communities.