Whooping cough outbreak declared in Elko County

ELKO, Nev. — State health officials have declared a whooping cough outbreak in Elko County.

The Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health says the county has seen an increase in the cases in recent years and 14 cases have been reported since July.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, and early treatment is considered very important.

The Elko Daily Free Press reports whooping cough starts with symptoms including a runny or stuffed-up nose, sneezing or a mild cough.

Health officials are urging the public to make sure families’ vaccinations are up to date. Vaccinations can provide long-term protection against whooping cough.