San Mateo County's Health System is launching a program to boost awareness of the statewide whooping cough epidemic, and encourage people to get vaccinated.

In a news release, the county announced that its Health System division "will collaborate with parents, doctors, schools, hospitals, child care centers and other county departments" to educate people about the illness, also known as pertussis, and to provide information about vaccination options.

Go to smhealth.org/pertussis for information about whooping cough and to find out where to get vaccinated.

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