The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) received one new laboratory-confirmed Bordetella pertussis (pertussis) report on October 13, 2025. This is the fourth confirmed pertussis case for 2025. Epidemiologic case investigation and contact tracing have been initiated to determine the source of the exposure.
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a vaccine-preventable disease. DPHSS is encouraging the public to ensure they are up to date with their vaccines. It is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It can cause severe coughing fits (up to 10 weeks or more), followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound when breathing in. Vomiting and exhaustion may also follow. Pertussis can lead to serious complications, especially in infants, such as pneumonia, dehydration, seizures, and brain damage. Some infants may not cough at all. Instead, they may have apnea (life-threatening pauses in breathing) or struggle to breathe.
DTaP and Tdap vaccines funded by DPHSS through the Vaccines For Children (VFC) Program are for children 18 years and under who are Not Insured, enrolled in Medicaid, or are Underinsured. Individuals with private health insurance must contact their primary healthcare provider for vaccine availability.
DTaP and Tdap vaccines are available for VFC eligible children at the following DPHSS locations:
Northern Region Community Health Center (NRCHC) and Southern Region Community Health Center (SRCHC):
• To schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine, individuals can call NRCHC at (671) 635-7412 or call the SRCHC at (671) 828-7623.