MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) The South Dakota Department of Health is reporting the death of a child from a co-infection of whooping cough, also known as Pertussis, and the flu. This is the first Pertussis-related death since 2023. With Pertussis and flu cases rising statewide, officials recommend frequent handwashing, avoiding sick people, and staying current on vaccines to help prevent the spread of disease. Pertussis spreads through coughing and sneezing, with symptoms starting like a cold and progressing to severe coughing fits. Antibiotics can stop the spread, but the cough can continue for weeks.