Whooping Cough Epidemic in California, Claims Lives of 5 Infants

Whooping cough, otherwise known as pertussis, is sweeping through the state of California. The state health department has officially declared a whooping cough epidemic, a label that has thrown many residents into a panic.

Infants are considered to be the most susceptible to catching whooping cough. The highly contagious disease has taking the lives of five infants (who were all 3 months old or younger) this year already. California officials have warned parents in the state to be extra vigilant in protecting their babies from the outbreak, and to make sure you  have your children vaccinated as soon as possible.

Parents are also recommended to receive vaccinations, as well as anyone who might work with children throughout the day. While the condition is more life threatening to toddlers, adults are urged to prepare and vaccinate themselves so to not pass the disease on to their own children.

Other affects whooping cough may have on infants are brain damage and an increased risk for developing pneumonia.

The disease, once thought to be a fading memory – a troublesome condition that would simply iron itself out of society – has found its way back into the spotlight this year. 910 whooping cough cases had been reported in California by June 15, and the number is expected to climb even higher.

The state anticipates the announcement of the epidemic will encourage families to get vaccinated sooner versus later. In hopes of mitigating the outbreak for the time being, state officials have warned residents to shield your mouth if you are going to cough or sneeze.