Five Cases of Whooping Cough Confirmed in Hawaii

The Hawaii Health Department has confirmed five cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, among unvaccinated members of one household visiting from the U.S. mainland. The family stayed at a hotel on Oahu, and the Health Department is coordinating with the CDC and other states to notify travelers who were exposed. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious complications, especially in infants. The best way to protect individuals and their loved ones is to stay up to date with recommended whooping cough vaccines.