Pertussis Questions
WWU is currently experiencing a pertussis outbreak
We are working with the Whatcom County Health Department to help prevent the spread and mitigate the impact for our students and the larger community.
I received an exposure alert letter but have no symptoms
Are you or someone you live/work with at risk for complications from pertussis?
(asthma, immune compromised, pregnant, older adult, infants, disabled person).
If so - please make an appointment to consult with our nursing team today.
If not - please monitor for symptoms (especially cough) and if you have any symptoms consider masking if you think you may be getting sick. If you develop a cough that is difficult to stop or causes you to vomit, please make an appointment.
I have a cough and I am worried about Pertussis
If you have a cough with a fever, are vomiting after coughing, have a cough that is hard to stop, or have a cough that lasts longer than 10 days, please make an appointment.
Work to reduce the spread
If you know you were potentially exposed to Pertussis or you are starting to develop possible symptoms please help reduce the spread of this disease.
Avoid being around others (especially the immunocompromised) until you are tested and treated.
Please wear a mask if you are around others until you are tested and treated.
How do I make an Appointment?
To make an appointment log into your MyWesternHealth patient portal. Click the button on the home page to make an appointment and choose the second option down:
- Consult for SORE THROAT, COUGH, COLD, FLU or COVID symptoms (via Phone Call)
Alternatively you can call our front desk at 360-650-3400 option 1 to speak with a receptionist.
If you are unable to make an appointment today, and you need to be seen urgently, please seek care at an off-campus clinic.
For more information on pertussis from our local health department, including about vaccination, please visit this link: Newsflash • Whooping Cough Increasing in Whatcom County