Did you know that you could protect someone you love with a simple lifesaving shot? Believe it or not, whooping cough (Pertussis) is on the rise right here in the US and has reached epidemic proportions in the state of California. The disease is highly contagious and potentially fatal for infants. It has been reported that almost 75% of the reported incidents for babies who get the disease, have caught it from someone right in their own home who is infected. If you know someone pregnant, ensure that anyone who’s going to be around your family, and even potential babysitters, go and get a DTaP booster (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis). In order for it to be effective, they must have had this booster within five years. Once a mom-to-be has delivered, she too should get the shot. Infants are at high risk until they are age one and have been immunized themselves. Be safe, be smart; you make a difference, and it’s a matter of health! You can find out more information on DTaP from WebMD or your family doctor.