The county's Department of Behavioral and Community Health reported more than 20 new cases since Jan. 1. Many of those affected have been adolescents, county officials said.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, can be fatal in infants and young children. It may start out like a common cold, but the cough gets worse and can last for months, officials said.
“The best way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination,” said Dr. Henry Kurban, department commissioner.
Kurban said it is particularly important for pregnant women and young children to be vaccinated, and anyone who has contact with very young babies should be vaccinated. Infants younger than 2 months are too young for the vaccine.
Dutchess County health experts also recommend paying attention to worsening symptoms. Also, the standard advice to avoid spreading illness applies: covering coughs and staying home when ill.
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