Grant County Health District officials say there are three confirmed, and possibly more cases of whooping cough in the Ephrata area.

Three cases have been confirmed and one additional probable case, with additional cases pending, health officials announced.

Whooping cough (pertussis) is highly contagious, and in an effort to control the outbreak of the disease, county health officials have recommended antibiotics for a defined number of individuals who have come into close contact with ill individuals.

Health officials stated that early symptoms include a runny nose, low-grade fever, occasional mild occasional cough, and a pause in breathing by babies.

Later symptoms include a long series of coughs, rapid coughs followed by a “whoop” sound and vomiting during a coughing spell, and turning blue as a result of coughing with exhaustion following.

Whooping cough is highly contagious and can be spread by coughing and sneezing.

Symptoms of whooping cough usually develop within five to 10 days, but can show up much later.

For additional information the public may call Heather Massart, public information office for the health district, (509) 766-7960, ext.16.