OR sets record for pertussis cases

PORTLAND & UMATILLA COUNTY – The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) says the state has reached an all-time high for pertussis (whooping cough) cases for the reporting period that began in the spring of 2024.

In 2025, Oregon recorded 1,475 cases of pertussis as of Dec. 10. The previous annual record was 1,420 in 1950. By the end of 2024, 1,252 cases were recorded. OHA said other states in the U.S. have reported similar caseload spikes.

State health officials are urging people to make sure they and their families are up-to-date on vaccinations, especially those who are pregnant or spend time with babies. While pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends every pregnant person receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine during their third trimester because infants’ immune systems are too weak to protect against infection until they receive vaccinations at the age of 2 months.

Umatilla County Public Health Director Joe Fiumara says UCo Health has followed up on a small number of pertussis cases in recent weeks.

“I would not say this is a current problem in Umatilla County, but I would remind that last year we did have multiple large outbreaks that affected a number of the school districts,” he said.

Pertussis is one of the diseases that Oregon law requires exclusion from schools if an individual is exposed and is not up to date with vaccinations.

“I would encourage all parents to ensure their children are current on all recommended vaccinations and that anyone who is experiencing a cough that lasts over two weeks should seek medical care,” Fiumara said.

File photo of UCo Health Director Joe Fiumara

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Elkhorn Media Group