Health officials have reported a concerning rise in pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, with cases returning to pre-pandemic levels both statewide and nationwide. In the last two months alone, the county has confirmed three cases of this highly contagious bacterial disease, which primarily impacts the respiratory tract.

Pertussis is particularly dangerous for infants under the age of one, who are at the highest risk for severe complications. The disease spreads easily through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, highlighting the importance of vaccination as the most effective prevention method.

As health authorities monitor this trend, they emphasize the need for increased awareness and vaccination efforts to protect vulnerable populations and curb the spread of this preventable illness.