Because 2025 marks the second year of increased cases, DSHS determined a health alert was in order.
Pertussis is an incredibly contagious bacterial illness that produces symptoms similar to the common cold, so it's often difficult to spot.
If you feel that you or a loved one has been infected with pertussis, you can always look for the classic symptoms which include intense coughing fits that grow noticeably worse and worse.
These coughing fits can cause some people to vomit, while others make an odd "whoop" sound as they attempt to catch their breath -- further strengthening the reality of the illness's name.
In infants, whooping cough can be especially dangerous as they may skip the coughing phase and instead show symptoms of gagging, vomiting, turning blue and even stopping to breathe.
Pertussis can be so life-threatening to infants, that nearly a third of babies under one year of age with whooping cough require treatment at a hospital, according to DSHS.
Early treatment can reduce the severity of the symptoms and the threat of spreading it to others, but vaccinations are recommended as the best course.
If you feel that you are exhibiting symptoms of whooping cough, you should immediately isolate yourself from others before calling your healthcare provider.
Wash your hands frequently, never share contact with other people in the house like touching toothbrushes, sharing food, or utensils, and always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.