Health officials are warning of a rise in several infections this season – particularly among school-age children – including whooping cough and walking pneumonia.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were approximately four times as many cases of whooping cough this year compared to last year.

On “CBS Mornings Plus” on Tuesday, CBS News chief correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook said whooping cough is particularly dangerous because of the small airways of infants and young children.

“The reason they call it whooping cough – it's a cough, cough, cough, cough, and then they gasp for air, that's whooping cough,” he said. “If you get it as an adult, you may be sick, but it's probably OK to move air in and out of your body. In infants, the airways are so small that they can really have difficulty breathing.” “

This will keep you protected from whooping cough

The good news is that there is an effective vaccine for pertussis, also known as whooping cough. It is part of a combination vaccine called Tdap that protects against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough.

But babies can't get it until they're two months old, making the youngest infants at risk.

“So until then, you’re really relying on adults to get vaccinated,” LaPook said.

The vaccine's protection wears off over time, so it's important to stay up to date on your vaccinations — and only about 44% of adults ages 18 and older are actually up to date on the vaccine.

“You should get another whooping cough shot every 10 years,” LaPook said.

LaPook recommends being on the lookout for breathing difficulties at any age — something parents should look out for in their little ones.

“If you have difficulty breathing or inhaling, you should definitely seek medical attention,” he said.

What you should know about walking pneumonia

There is also an unusual increase in so-called walking pneumonia, a type of atypical pneumonia, particularly in young children.

Medically known as mycoplasma pneumonia, it is a bacteria that causes respiratory infections, LaPook explained, adding that it can range from no symptoms to mild and severe symptoms.

The nickname “running pneumonia” comes from people who generally have milder symptoms.

“You're sick, but you can still walk around. But it can be serious,” LaPook said. “If you have airway inflammation and difficulty breathing, that can be a real problem.”