Two NY infants die of pertussis in 2011

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Parents and caregivers of newborns and infants are encouraged to get vaccinated against pertussis, also known as whooping cough.

Pertussis can cause serious and potentially life-threatening complications in infants and young children who are not fully vaccinated.

The New York State Department of Health says pertussis activity continues to increase in the state, claiming the lives of two infants in New York State in 2011.

A 19-day-old infant died earlier this year, after developing congestion, cough, sneezing and difficulty breathing at nine days old. At 12 days old, the infant was diagnosed with bronchiolitis and was sent to the emergency department. The infant's condition worsened and at 15 days old the baby was intubated.

A seven-week-old infant died from pertussis, after persistent coughing for three weeks, being diagnosed with bronchiolitis and being admitted to the pediatric ICU.

In 2010, there was significant changes in the use of adolescent and adult pertussis vaccine to increase vaccine coverage and protect vulnerable infants.

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