Concerns Grow Over Rising Whooping Cough Cases in Virginia
Surge in Whooping Cough Cases
Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease, is experiencing a significant surge in Virginia. Health officials are raising alarms as reported cases have increased dramatically from 66 last year to nearly 400 in 2024.
Understanding the Facts
According to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), anyone can contract whooping cough, but it poses greater dangers for children under one year of age. This spike in cases is particularly concerning, with the increase being driven by outbreaks in group settings.
Preventive Measures
- Vaccination is essential to protect vulnerable populations.
- Awareness campaigns need to be launched to inform the public.
- Parents are encouraged to keep up with immunization schedules for their children.
Meredith Robinson, VDH and Vaccine Preventable Disease Coordinator, emphasizes the critical impact of this rising trend and urges immediate action.
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