Spokane Regional Health District has announced the first confirmed death from pertussis, or whooping cough, in Washington since 2011.

A resident of Spokane County, under the age of five, passed away in November.

The death was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week.

Although pertussis was confirmed as the cause of death, there were other health factors that contributed, according to the SRHD. The child had received some doses of the DTaP vaccine but had not completed the series.

In a press release, SRHD urges residents to ensure they and their loved ones are up to date on pertussis vaccinations.

Pertussis is a bacterial infection that causes severe coughing spells, often followed by a “whooping” sound when the person inhales. It can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death.

Infants and young children are particularly at risk, which is why early vaccination is crucial.