Portland State’s game against South Dakota was postponed shortly before tipoff after several Vikings players came down with a bout of whooping cough.
The team announced the decision just hours before the game, revealing that “many players” in its soccer program were affected by the disease.
A statement posted on the school’s athletics website read: ‘A case of whooping cough took hold of the Viking team two days ago.
“Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease that affects the lungs, so many members of the team have been exposed to it.”
They added that no players are currently seriously ill, but team doctors at both Portland State and South Dakota decided the best course of action was to cancel the game.
Portland State tight end Elias Spence is pictured during a game against Washington State. It’s unclear if he is among the affected players.
Portland State head coach Bruce Barnum is on the sidelines for the game against Oregon
The decision was made to ensure that South Dakota players also do not contract the disease while doctors try to contain the spread.
Portland State’s upcoming opponent, Boise State, has already released a statement of their own ahead of the Week 4 matchup, revealing that they are “monitoring the situation.”
“We are in communication with Portland State administration and will continue to do so as we continue to monitor the situation regarding next Saturday’s game. Our top priority and concern is the health and safety of everyone involved.”
Heading into the game at Hillsboro Stadium, Portland State was 0-2 and South Dakota was 1-1.
