Portland State cancels game vs. South Dakota due to whooping cough outbreak

Portland State canceled its game Saturday against South Dakota due to a whooping cough outbreak, per a release from the program.

“A case of pertussis (whooping cough) got into the Viking team two days ago,” a statement from Portland State read. “Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that affects the lungs. As a result, many team members have been exposed to the disease. The two programs and their team doctors have been in discussions regarding the situation.

“It was determined by Portland State that the game would not be played in the interest of the health of the student-athletes.”

The release noted no players on Portland State are seriously ill at this time. Ticketing and refund information is to be announced at a later date, per the team.

Portland State is 0-2 on the season following a 70-30 loss to Washington State and a 43-16 loss to Weber State. With the canceled game, the Vikings are back in action September 21st at Boise State.

Portland State game canceled due to whooping cough

Coming off a 5-6 season, Portland State looked to rebound in 2024. So far, the 0-2 start has been rough for the Vikings football team.

As far as how the team continues after this sickness outbreak, it remains to be seen. Boise State, the next Portland State opponent, was celebrating this week.

The Broncos announced they would join the new Pac-12 in 2026, bringing the conference back up to six teams.

“For over a century, the Pac-12 Conference has been recognized as a leading brand in intercollegiate athletics,” commissioner Teresa Gould said. “We will continue to pursue bold cutting-edge opportunities for growth and progress, to best serve our member institutions and student-athletes.

“I am thankful to our board for their efforts to welcome Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno, and San Diego State University to the conference. An exciting new era for the Pac-12 Conference begins today.”