Spotlighting Health

The respiratory viral season is in full swing as the community struggles with influenza and record setting cases of Pertussis, which is commonly referred to as Whooping Cough.  

 

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) cases have been rising nationally and in Idaho. Through November of 2024, there were 315 cases of Pertussis in the five northern counties. In comparison, there were only five cases in 2023.

 

Statewide there were more than 700 cases of the disease in 2024.

 

“It’s the highest number of Pertussis cases since 1997,” said Dr. Anthony Rehil-Crest, Chief Clinical Officer for Heritage Health. “We don’t know why, but the cases are skyrocketing. Part of it could be that the respiratory disease is extremely contagious and easily transmitted. Being in the same room with an infected person is enough to get it.”

 

Pertussis is a disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is particularly dangerous for infants, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically begin with mild cold-like signs, such as a runny nose, mild cough, and low fever, and can progress to severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a "whooping" sound.

 

The flu is also problematic. On average, an individual with Influenza will infect two others with the virus. By comparison, the average person with Pertussis will infect five to six people.

 

“Influenza, Pertussis, RSV, and COVID-19 can put a tremendous strain on our local healthcare system,” said Rehil-Crest. “When rates of these infections increase simultaneously, they can use a lot of our healthcare resources, like hospital beds. This means other critical procedures may not be completed because the doctors and nurses are so busy with the flu and pertussis patients.”

 

The Panhandle Health District said that through November of 2024, influenza cases had reached 1,442 cases.

 

People who are at high risk of flu complications include young children, adults (65 years and older), pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.

 

Rapid influenza testing and testing for pertussis are available at all Heritage Health medical clinics.