Cases of whooping cough on the rise

Reports of whooping cough have been on the rise across the United States.

Pertussis infections reached an all-time low in 1976, with only about a thousand cases reported. Lately, reports have been on the rise in all age groups. More than 25,000 cases were reported nationwide in 2005. Alakhras said that while there was a slight decrease in 2006, there has since been another increase.

Also known as pertussis, whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection, but a series of five D-Tap vaccinations given to infants and children can prevent the spread of the disease.

Clarian Arnett Health's Dr. Mazen Alakhras said it's important to get the vaccine because the disease is dangerous, especially for infants, and can lead to serious illness, complications, even death.

Pertussis's common name of 'whooping cough' comes from the 'whoop' sound infected children make when they're struggling for breath between severe fits of coughing.

Alakhras said these attacks generally last about two minutes and occur between five and 20 times a day, but can happen as many as 50 times a day. In between, there may be almost no symptoms.

This can be very frightening.

"It is because they almost suffocate with each attack of cough," said Alakhras. "It's scary for parents also."

The infection usually affects infants and young children, but adults can be affected too.

Dr. Alakhras says the best way to protect children from the disease is to ensure they receive vaccinations of D-Tap on time, given in a series of five shots.