Health authorities on the West Coast have issued warnings after an outbreak of whooping cough.
This year 28 cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, have been reported. Seven of the cases have occurred in the past month.
West Coast medical officer of health Dr Cheryl Brunton says the whooping cough rate is three times higher than the national average.
She says babies under one year old are most at risk from serious complications and death.
Dr Brunton says parents should ensure their children are up to date with whooping cough vaccinations.
