Batavia, OH – Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection and is one of the most commonly occurring vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States.

The pertussis infection is usually spread by coughing or sneezing while in close contact with others. Clermont County has cases of pertussis every year; however, there currently is an increase in pertussis cases in the county and throughout Ohio.

The single most effective control measure is vaccination. Seeing a physician in a timely manner and treatment of ill individuals and their close contacts reduces the spread of pertussis. If you suspect you have pertussis stay away from others until you seek treatment.

Visit www.clermonthealthdistrict.org, www.ODH.Ohio.gov or www.cdc.gov/pertussis for more information.