Health officials continue to tackle a whooping cough outbreak in The Dalles that’s been running since the end of last month.
A group focused on taking religion out of government is targeting Oregon’s high rate of vaccine exemptions.
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So far, The Dalles has seen 16 cases and local public health authorities are urging people to get vaccinated.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, can last for weeks or even months, and can be very dangerous for infants or people with weakened immune systems.
A free clinic has been organized for Thursday evening at The Dalles Middle School. Free vaccinations will be offered to people seven and older who aren’t up to date with their T-DAP vaccine.
Families in The Dalles who suspect their children may have been exposed are being asked to keep them out of daycare or camp, and take them to a doctor.