Whooping cough is on the rise in Hawke's Bay.
Photo: 123RF
The region's medical officer of health, Rachel Eyre, said there had been a slight increase in the number of cases for this time of year.
The highly infectious bacterial infection, which is spread by sneezing and coughing, is a serious risk for babies and children.
Dr Eyre said children should be vaccinated and pregnant women should get a booster shot.
She said any child with symptoms must be excluded from childcare, especially where there are infants.
Symptoms include a runny nose, mild fever and a cough that can last weeks and cause vomiting.
