WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Whooping cough is on the rise in Whatcom County.

According to Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS), eight confirmed cases have been reported this month with five occurring since Monday, Oct. 21. They say several additional cases are pending and expected to be confirmed.

WCHCS adds that the cases are mostly within large families and exposure happened in gatherings with school-age children.

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is highly contagious and anyone experiencing even mild symptoms should contact their doctor.

Pertussis can cause serious health problems in people no matter their age but especially in young children including pneumonia, seizures, apnea and sometimes death.

Taking preventative measures like washing hands, covering your cough or sneezes and staying home if you feel sick can help slow the spread of illnesses.