Whooping Cough Cases on the Rise in Vermont - FOX44 - Burlington / Plattsburgh News, Weather & Sports

Whooping Cough Cases on the Rise in Vermont

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BURLINGTON, Vt. -

In Vermont, whooping cough is on the rise.  272 cases have already been reported this year.

That's 3 times the number of all last year.

People with whooping cough, also called pertussis, have severe coughing fits which can last for weeks.

It's particularly dangerous for children under 1.

Health officials say everyone should be vaccinated.

"For older teenagers and adults who are going to be near children if you've never had a pertussis vaccine you can get one right now," William Raszka, M.D. at Fletcher Allen Pediatrics, said.

Children should also get a pertussis booster shot around the age 11.

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