WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – More cases of a highly contagious disease are being reported throughout the state.

The Washington Department of Health says that cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, have soared to 218 in the first half of 2024.

Only 24 cases were reported throughout the entire state in June of 2023.

Whooping cough is most often diagnosed in children but can also be spread among adults. Two cases have been reported in Whatcom County this year, but concerning transmission rates are being reported in Chelan and Douglas County.

Symptoms may be hard to detect when a person is infected, but a pronounced cough lasting over two weeks is the most common sign of pertussis.

Anyone who suspects they may have whooping cough is urged to get tested and stay home following at least five days of antibiotic treatment.