False-color transmission electron micrograph of a field of whooping cough bacteria, Bordetella pertussis.(A. Barry Dowsett / Science Source)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pertussis is on the rise.

Here in the Gem State, we're seeing an outbreak in North Idaho and the Boise State Broncos almost had the home opener against Portland State canceled due to the disease.

Dr. David Pate, former CEO of St. Luke's Health System, joined Idaho Matters to talk more about this report along with other public health issues.