FRANKFORT, Ky. (WEVV) — State health officials have reported the deaths of two infants from whooping cough in Kentucky over the past six months.

These are the first whooping cough-related fatalities in the state since 2018.

Officials with the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) highlighted the importance of vaccinations for pregnant women and infants to prevent such tragedies.

“Anyone can get whooping cough, but infants are at greatest risk for life-threatening illness,” said KDPH Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack. He emphasized that vaccinations during pregnancy can protect both mother and baby.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness, with symptoms that can escalate to severe coughing fits. Infants under 1 year old are particularly vulnerable to severe complica

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