Health officials in Mobile say the number of cases of whooping cough continues to climb.
Whooping cough is the common name for pertussis, which is very contagious and is most often characterized by an uncontrollable, violent cough.
WKRG-TV reports the Mobile County Health Department has confirmed 63 pertussis cases, 13 probable cases and seven open investigations.
Other symptoms of whooping cough include a fever, sneezing and a runny nose. It can be deadly, especially for babies under a year old.
Health officials are encouraging parents and children to get vaccinated. The county health department does vaccinations at the downtown location on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments aren't required but are recommended.
