American honeymoon hotspot hit by highly contagious illness, health officials warn

American honeymoon hotspot hit by highly contagious illness, health officials warn

'Aloha State' already reports more pertussis cases than all of 2024

Pertussis complications can include pneumonia, seizures, apnea, encephalopathy and death. (iStock)

Hawaii has fallen below national averages in terms of childhood vaccinations, data shows. (iStock)

Children should receive the DTaP vaccine in five doses, starting at two months, with a booster at 4 to 6 years old, doctors suggest. (iStock)

For adolescents and adults, the Tdap vaccine is given as a booster that offers 85% protection, "significantly reducing the spread," according to an expert. (iStock)

The Hawaii DOH stressed its "strong" recommendation for children and adults to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations for disease prevention. (iStock)