Pasadena Health Officials Warn of Whooping Cough Outbreak Amid Rising Cases
The Pasadena Public Health Department has reported an unusually high number of whooping cough cases in the city, with a significant outbreak occurring at Blair Middle School. As of now, there have been 11 confirmed cases this year, compared to the typical annual average of three. Health officials are actively investigating the outbreak and have provided guidance to those who were in close contact with the infected individuals. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through coughing or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms often start with cold-like signs such as sneezing, runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever, but can escalate to severe coughing fits. Health authorities emphasize the importance of vaccination, urging parents to ensure their children are up to date with the Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) vaccine and the Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) booster for older children. 
