Whooping Cough Epidemic Continues to Grow

The whooping cough epidemic continues to spread throughout California. Whooping cough or otherwise known as pertussis can be deadly for newborns. This latest epidemic has already claimed five lives so far. Many are blaming the lack of vaccinations issued that may have protected some of the victims.

Vaccinations for whooping cough are part of the government recommended immunization schedule for children. Many parents have opted not to give their children these immunizations. Many of these parents believe vaccines are more harmful than the diseases they prevent. Although there have been several studies indicating otherwise, the number of unvaccinated children continues to grow.

California is considered to be at epidemic status with the number of cases of whooping cough reported thus far. Infants under 2 months are more susceptible to pertussis because they do not get their first immunization against this virus until they reach 2 months of age. Kids are not protected against the virus until they have gotten at least the first 3 vaccinations that are scheduled 2 months apart. Children are given a booster shot around 18 months of age and again at 5 years. Recently, another booster shot has been recommended for children around 10 years old.

The virus starts out with common cold symptoms and then rapidly turns into a severe cough that can leave a person gasping for air.  Any person who works or lives around children under 1 year, should get a vaccination to ensure they do not spread the virus to a vulnerable child.