Whooping Cough Case Reported at Santa Sophia Academy Preschool

Six additional cases of pertussis, or "whooping cough," have been reported across San Diego County, bringing the total of reported cases so far this year to 101.

One of the new cases involves a five-year-old student at in Spring Valley. Pertussis reached an epidemic status in San Diego County, with more than 1,100 cases in 2010, including two that resulted in infant death.

“If every child received their five childhood vaccinations and a booster shot for all children older than 10 years old, it would greatly reduce the current epidemic status of pertussis in the state and the county,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County Public Health Officer. “Starting this fall, teenagers entering middle and high schools must now  provide proof that they have had a pertussis booster shot in order to enroll for classes.”

Residents can get vaccinated at their primary care doctor or at an HHSA Public Health Center if they don’t have a regular healthcare provider.