Statewide, there have been 972 cases reported this year. There were only 3200 cases for the previous 11 years together.
Cumberland county has had 30 cases, and Gloucester county has had 18 - that's nearly 4 times higher than the total for ALL of last year.
Health officials blame the boom on parents delaying vaccinations for their kids, or not getting them vaccinated at all.
In addition, many adults no longer have immunity from their childhood vaccinations. Booster shots are recommended, but many haven't gotten them.
Health experts warn anyone with a nagging cough to seek medical attention, especially if it is a violent cough. A person can spread this disease for 3 weeks after the first symptoms appear.
