Babies in New York massively ill with whooping cough: the authorities are sounding the alarm

A surge in cases of whooping cough among children in one of the counties of New York caused alarm among local authorities and led to the issuance of a special warning. According to NBCNewYork, the trend of rising outbreaks of the disease every year only increases.

Whooping cough cases have increased in Sullivan County. The local health department reported five additional confirmed cases “this week alone.” Diseases of concern have been found in children.

The Sullivan County Department of Public Health issued an alert Thursday, August 10, due to an increase in cases of whooping cough, which is considered highly contagious. Whooping cough-related coughs can last up to 10 weeks, and in some cases longer, health officials say.

“This is an important warning and comes during National Vaccine Awareness Month,” said Director of Public Health Karen Holden. “This month highlights why vaccines are important for people of all ages and how they can help prevent serious, sometimes fatal diseases and illnesses.”

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Whooping cough can cause serious illness in people of all ages, but it is especially dangerous for babies. According to the relevant department, half of children under 1 year old, as a rule, need hospitalization.

Cases of whooping cough, experts say, have been on the rise for several years in a row. In New York, the number of cases in 2022 almost doubled from the previous year. The county's warning says 2023 is on track to repeat this trend.

Anyone who suspects they have contracted whooping cough should contact their doctor. In addition, the county has a 845-hour public health line: 292-5910-XNUMX.