13 Mar Pertussis on CTUIR
Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center Public Health Department Informs Tribal Community of Pertussis Outbreak within the CTUIR; 2 Cases reported within CTUIR Reservation Boundaries and 19 Cases Reported Across Multiple Regions and Age Groups within Umatilla County.
Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center Public Health Department is informing the Tribal community about an ongoing pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak within the CTUIR and in Umatilla County, with 21 reported cases, including both confirmed and additional suspect cases. These cases have been identified not only within the reservation boundaries but also across multiple regions of Umatilla 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 like those of the common cold. Because of this, pertussis can often go undiagnosed and unintentionally spread to others who may be more vulnerable.