KALISPELL, Mont. — The Flathead County Health Department has received reports of eight cases of whooping cough connected with an elementary school in Columbia Falls and the Swan River school east of Bigfork.
Community Health Services Director Jody White says the department is working with school personnel and medical providers to identify people who had contact with those who are infected. The agency also urges anyone who has had a cough for more than a week to consult their doctor.
Community Health Services Director Jody White says the department is working with school personnel and medical providers to identify people who had contact with those who are infected.
Yellowstone County also recently reported two cases of whooping cough, bringing the statewide total this year to over 100 cases.
Ravalli County had 35 cases through May 3, Lewis and Clark County has 19 and Dawson County 17.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can cause uncontrollable coughing.