Whooping cough cases pop up in s. tier

MAYVILLE, N.Y. (WIVB) - The Chautauqua County Public Health Director says there are cases of petrussis, better known as the whooping cough, diagnosed in the county. Christine Schuyler says they have seen sporadic cases in the county, mostly in the southern part of the county. She says outbreaks in middle schools, high school and institutional settings are common.

Schuyler says whooping cough can be easily spread by coughing, sneezing, not washing hands and close contact. The health director is urging anyone who spends time around children to get the vaccine, because the disease can be very dangerous for a child.

To obtain vaccinations, contact your health care provider or call the Chautauqua County Health Department at 1-866-604-6789. For more information on Pertussis/Whooping Cough, visit www.cdc.gov.