Children ages 10 to 14 have been diagnosed with Pertussis in Philomath, Monroe and Corvallis. Making sure children and adults are vaccinated against whooping cough is an important preventative measure.
Benton County Public Information Officer Rick Osborn says Pertussis cases are serious and can be fatal in infants.
Osborn: “Keeping an eye on things and trying to maintain preventative attitudes among the schools and in the community. Keeping people doing things like getting vaccinated, washing your hands regularly, covering your nose when you cough and sneeze, stay home from work or school when you feel ill.”
Oregon requires that children receive the DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis) immunization before attending public schools. Children older than seven and adults should receive a booster shot. Pregnant women are especially encouraged to get the vaccine.
Free Tdap (the booster shot for Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis) and flu vaccines are being offered Thursday and Friday at Valley River Center in Eugene.