02/02/2026
Coos County Public Health Alert: Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update
Public Health officials are closely monitoring an increased number of positive and presumptive cases of Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, in county schools. Cases are being identified among both unvaccinated students and some who are vaccinated.
Health officials explain that these “breakthrough” cases can occur as the Bordetella pertussis bacteria naturally evolves, which may reduce vaccine or booster effectiveness over time. Because of this, and to help maintain in-person learning, Public Health is not currently enforcing exclusion policies for unvaccinated students. This decision will be continually reevaluated as conditions change.
That said, community health remains the top priority. Anyone showing symptoms of Pertussis should contact a healthcare provider promptly for testing and treatment. Early symptoms often resemble a common cold, including a runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever, but may progress to severe coughing fits followed by the characteristic “whoop.”
Individuals who are confirmed or presumed positive must stay home for the first five days of antibiotic treatment. After that period, they may return to school or work, even if a cough continues, provided the full course of antibiotics is completed as prescribed.
Public Health urges everyone to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid close contact with those who are ill. A little caution now can prevent a lot of coughing later.
For more information about Pertussis, visit the CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html
