Whooping Cough Cases Rise In NM, As Fewer Get Shots

 Health officials say a three-fold increase in the number of New Mexico children exempt from required vaccinations may be a factor in the state's jump of whooping cough cases.

The Albuquerque Journal reports that a recent New Mexico Department of Health report shows the number of New Mexico children exempt from required vaccinations has tripled since 1999 to nearly 3,400.

Meanwhile, the state has seen a spike in pertussis, or whooping cough, from 85 cases in 2009 to 274 cases in 2011.

About 112 pertussis cases were reported this year through May 5. Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial illness that attacks the respiratory system.

New Mexico law allows parents to exempt their children from required vaccinations by claiming a religious or personal belief that forbids vaccinations.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.