Whooping cough outbreak reported in Cache Valley

NORTH LOGAN — Officials are reporting a whooping cough outbreak at North Park Elementary school.

Cache County School District spokesman Kirk McRae confirmed that there have been seven cases of whooping cough at the elementary. He said the school has temporarily excluded as many as 15 students from attendance who were not vaccinated against the disease, in accordance with health department recommendations.

There were two suspected cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, in addition to the seven students confirmed, said Bear River Health Department spokeswoman Jill Parker. It was not known if the suspected cases were also North Park students.

She said the outbreak is not yet contained, with three of the cases being confirmed Thursday.

The disease results from a highly contagious bacterial infection and causes prolonged coughing fits and respiratory problems.

"In infants and children it can be very severe," Parker said.

The first cases of whooping cough were confirmed last Thursday. She said parents should check that their children have had their vaccinations and keep students home who are feeling sick.

— Benjamin Wood