EPHRATA - Grant County has seen a spike in the number of whooping cough cases in the last month, and health district officials are urging county residents to take steps to keep from spreading the disease.

Cases of whooping cough, also called pertussis, have been reported in Soap Lake, Moses Lake, Ephrata and Mattawa, said Theresa Adkinson, public information officer for the Grant County Health District, this week. Patients have ranged from ages 1 to 18.

Officials are asking residents to get vaccinated, and, in conjunction with several local clinics, are offering free vaccinations for uninsured adults or adults whose insurance won't cover the vaccination.

"Pertussis is highly contagious and can be deadly for the most vulnerable," said Shawta Sackett, public health manager and district epidemiologist. "That includes the very young, the very old and those with weakened immune systems."

People who live with or work around infants and young children should be immunized, Adkinson said. People who think they may have been exposed to whooping cough should consult a health care provider immediately, she said.

A persistent cough is one of the symptoms, she said, especially just a cough with no other symptoms. People who have a cough should see a doctor, she said. It's possible to contract whooping cough more than once, so people should get the vaccination.

A person who's been exposed to whooping cough should take the entire prescription of antibiotics, even if they start feeling better, she said. People waiting for a diagnosis should stay home, or stay home for five days while taking the medication, Adkinson said.

People who want more information on the vaccination program or locations can contact the health district at 509-766-7960.