BELLINGHAM, WA – The mysterious illness spreading among dogs is growing closer to Whatcom County as Washington saw its first reported cases.

The highly contagious sickness originated in Oregon, where there are currently over 100 cases.

But the Washington State Department of Agriculture now says 16 reports, including two in Island County, were submitted regarding what it calls “atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex.”

Two of the reports were confirmed as the unidentified illness and the department says it is still investigating the other 14.

Experts are advising dog owners to fully vaccinate their pets and avoid places where dogs congregate.