Pasadena Public Health Department Investigates Whooping Cough Outbreak at Local School
The Pasadena Public Health Department is investigating a pertussis outbreak at Don Benito Fundamental School, where four cases have been confirmed. Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, presents symptoms similar to a cold but can escalate to severe coughing fits, vomiting, and breathing difficulties. The disease is highly contagious, spreading through coughing or close contact. The health department is urging residents to ensure vaccinations are up to date and to consult healthcare providers if symptoms develop. The school, part of the Pasadena Unified School District, is taking precautions such as sanitizing classrooms and maintaining communication with affected individuals. Despite a high vaccination rate among students, with 98% of kindergarten and transitional kindergarten students vaccinated, the outbreak highlights a resurgence of pertussis cases in California, which had significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
