The Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department announced Monday there have been 15 confirmed cases of whooping cough and 13 likely cases of the highly contagious respiratory infection since Sept. 1.

“The cases have mainly been found in adolescents,” said Sheryl Tirol-Goodwin, spokeswoman for the local health department.

Whooping cough – or pertussis – is spread by coughing or sneezing. Common symptoms include extended coughing followed by a “whooping” sound when a person breathes in. Vomiting also may occur after a coughing episode.

The best measure to battle whooping cough is immunization. Booster shots are available for children and, most recently, adolescents and adults. The health department has booster shots available for children and adolescents.

To find out more, call the health department at 843-0721 or your healthcare provider.