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The whooping cough outbreak claiming infant lives
The CDC record the highest number of cases in a decade
© Getty Images
Remember that cough you thought was harmless? Think again. Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness most of us associate with childhood, is making a startling comeback. This isn't just an echo of the past - it's causing outbreaks and even deaths in countries around the world, including the US and Europe. And don't let the name fool you: whooping cough can be far more serious than a simple cough, with potentially devastating consequences.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of the illness have quadrupled in the past year, with over 16,000 being recorded in the US so far. This makes it the highest on record in a decade, with those at most risk being babies under the age of one. Around a third of those who catch whooping cough end up needing to go to the hospital, as it can lead to complications such as pneumonia and even death.
These are sobering facts, but before you hit the panic button, take a deep breath. This guide will be your one-stop shop for understanding whooping cough's resurgence. Click through to learn more about how you can help protect yourself starting today.
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