(NEWS CENTER) -- Getting the kids ready to go back to school isn't just buying notebooks and pens.  Making sure they're fully immunized is also important. 

Pertussis is a highly communicable disease that causes a severe cough and can last for many weeks. It can cause serious illness and can even be life-threatening, especially in infants.  This year the disease is on the rise in Maine and that's why Dr. Donald Burgess is stressing how important it is to get your child vaccinated before heading back to class.

NEWS CENTER