LA GRANDE (AP) — Health officials in Union County say they have confirmed three new cases of whooping cough, pushing the total to five since last month.

The most recent cases involve the La Grande High School football team.

Health officials provided immunization shots for the team. And next week immunization clinics will be offered at La Grande High School and La Grande Middle School.

Whooping cough — or pertussis — is a highly contagious bacterial disease spread by close contact with an infected person. Symptoms usually appear within five to 10 days of exposure, but can take as long as 21 days.

Symptoms are a violent cough and a whooping sound when taking a breath.