Great Falls, MT – Cascade County has confirmed its first case of pertussis in 2023. Although only one case has been confirmed, it involved a large number of exposures. There are multiple other suspected pertussis infections that have not been confirmed through laboratory testing. Statewide, 17 pertussis cases have been confirmed in 2023.

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads through droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. It is most dangerous in infants, pregnant women, and people who are immunocompromised. Symptoms typically...