SPOKANE-- The number of local whooping cough cases continued to skyrocket in May.
The Spokane Regional Health District says they have investigated 66 cases of pertussis. Forty-five of them have been confirmed, two of them are probably and 19 are suspect.
During the same time period last year, the SRHD had five reported cases.
According to the SRHD, unvaccinated children are 8.9 times more likely to become infected with whooping cough than children who have been vaccinated.
For members of the public who do not have insurance, or whose insurance does not cover the shot, SRHD’s Public Health Clinic offers low-cost, state-donated vaccine for adults 19 and over. The $15.60 fee will be waived if the patient is unable to pay. Contact them at (509) 324-1600.
Links:
Washington State whooping cough rates
For a list of pharmacies, click here.
