A sixth whooping cough death has been confirmed in California. The latest case reported is a toddler in Los Angeles County. Health officials on Tuesday did not immediately have details about the death.
The baby was the third in recent deaths of whooping cough in LA County, bringing the total to six deaths this year in California.
Whooping cough has become an epidemic in California. About 1,500 cases have been recorded through July 13. That's a fivefold increase over the same period last year.
The California Department of Public Health had confirmed 910 cases in the state and another 600 were under investigation.
According to the Center for Disease Control:
Whooping cough — known medically as pertussis — is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. Although it initially resembles an ordinary cold, whooping cough may eventually turn more serious, particularly in infants.
Whooping cough is most contagious before the coughing starts. The best way to prevent it is through vaccinations. The childhood vaccine is called DTaP. The whooping cough booster vaccine for adolescents and adults is called Tdap. Both protect against whooping cough, tetanus, and diphtheria.
CDC recommends the best way to prevent pertussis is to get vaccinated.
Comments
The California Department of Public Health has confirmed
910 cases of whooping cough.
And 600 cases were under investigation.
As of July 13 over 1,500 cases of whooping cough reported in the state of California.
Sixth whooping cough death in California was a Toddler in Los Angeles County.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!