Oregon faces measles, pertussis outbreaks ahead of respiratory virus season

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — What health officials once referred to as a “respiratory virus trifecta” — including COVID-19, influenza and the respiratory syncytial virus — could be joined by other outbreaks this RSV season.

At a media briefing hosted by the Oregon Health Authority, Multnomah County Health Department Health Officer Richard Bruno noted the state is currently experiencing measles and pertussis outbreaks.

According to the doctor, Oregon has recorded 31 measles cases this year — the highest number since 1991. He added that all of these cases involved unvaccinated people, two of which were hospitalized.

“The good news is that the most recent measles case was confirmed in mid-August, so we may be nearing the end of this outbreak,” Bruno said. “The not-so-good news is that school children in Oregon are below the 95% vaccination rate that’s needed for herd immunity.”

Measles cases could increase once again now that the school year has started.

With pertussis, also known as whooping cough, there have been 560 cases so far in 2024. Health officials said that figure is much higher than previous years.

While Bruno said measles and pertussis are among the world’s most contagious diseases, he noted there are effective vaccines for both.

Oregonians are encouraged to stay up to date on their vaccines for these diseases, in addition to the viruses known to spread throughout the respiratory season.

Sarah Laiosa, health officer for Malheur and Harney Counties, said Oregon is among the states with the lowest hospital beds per person — a statistic that can overburden health care workers and facilities in the fall and winter. The issue could have worse impacts in rural counties.

“In these rural areas, access to care can include additional challenges, such as extreme weather events, prolonged road closures, long distances to nearest health care provider, and limited emergency medical resources,” Laiosa said. “In these under-resourced areas, preventing severe illness through vaccines and early treatment is essential.”

There are no clear forecasts on upcoming outbreaks, according to OHA Respiratory Viral Pathogens Medical Director Melissa Sutton. The lack of clarity is another reason why the agency has reminded residents to get immunizations, especially for groups with higher risk of infection.

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