Free whooping cough vaccines offered at weekend sci-fi convention

The health agency will set up an on-site clinic at the event at the International Blvd. entrance of the Mall at Peachtree Center.

In 2009, nearly 17,000 cases of pertussis were reported in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In addition to the vaccines, health officials will also provide visitors information on sexually transmitted diseases.

The clinic runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 4-5. For more information visit www.CobbAndDouglasPublicHealth.org.