Sonora, CA — Whooping Cough is a growing problem in California.
During the first five months of this year, California has registered over 580 cases, which is almost three times as many recorded during the same point in 2009.
Tuolumne County Health Officer Dr. Todd Stolp says there hasn’t been a drastic uptick in the county yet, but residents should still do what they can to prevent the illness.
A booster shot for whooping cough, known as pertussis, is recommended every 10 years.
Infants are most vulnerable to whooping cough, as the infection can cause death. Studies show that half of all infants that catch whooping cough are infected by their parents, making it important that caregivers receive the vaccination.
Written by bjhansen@mlode.com.
This post was last modified on 06/14/2010 2:22 pm