As per a recent report, it has been unveiled that Washington has been facing the epidemic of Whooping cough since long. The figures have mounted to sky levels merely within one year.

Whooping cough or pertussis mainly targets infants or very young children as they could not be vaccinated against the same at such a small age. The report says that the booster shots are suggested only for those above 11 years at an interval of every 10 years through the TDap vaccine.

Health officials have told that pertussis is a bacterial infection that easily spreads through tiny droplets released while coughing or sneezing. Initially, it only causes mild cold, but can lead to severe upper respiratory infections or coughing attacks ending with a high-pitched whooping sound if not treated timely.

As per the data revealed on March 31, 94 cases of the infection were seen in the previous year. However, a notable figure, i. e. 640 cases, have been seen this year which is a matter of huge concern, say the officials. Nonetheless, unlike previous two years that saw two deaths each, no deaths have been caused this year, says the report.

Since whooping cough has been found to be highly contagious, the health officials have thus been recommending that anyone who is more likely to come in contact with infants should get himself vaccinated with shots. However, these shots does not ensure a life time protection, they protect against the infection as well as tetanus and diphtheria for a certain time period.

“We’re asking everyone to use good health manners — like cover your cough and stay home when you’re sick — that will also help prevent spreading whooping cough”, the officials affirmed.