This year, the United States has seen over 25,000 reported cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, marking a significant increase as highlighted by recent federal data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This surge in cases continues a troubling trend, noting that the previous year also showed an unusual rise in infections. The numbers are concerning, especially when compared to the pre-pandemic figures, where approximately 18,600 cases were reported in 2019. The last time the cases reached such heights was in 2014, with over 32,900 cases recorded.
Particularly alarming is the impact on infants, as Kentucky announced the deaths of three unvaccinated infants from whooping cough, which marks the first such fatalities in the state since 2018. Kentucky is currently experiencing its highest level of whooping cough cases since 2012, with 566 cases reported so far this year. Deaths from whooping cough have also been documented in Louisiana and Washington state, further underscoring the seriousness of the current situation.
Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. Infection spreads through coughing and sneezing, with individuals being contagious for weeks before showing symptoms. Early signs often mimic those of a common cold, such as a runny nose, cough, and low-grade fever, but can escalate to severe coughing fits lasting up to 12 weeks.
While the CDC indicates that whooping cough can be treated effectively with antibiotics, early intervention is key to reducing the severity of the illness. Most symptoms can be managed at home, which can prevent complications. Though a vaccine for whooping cough has been available since the late 1940s, leading to a tremendous decline in cases by over 90%, vaccination rates have been gradually declining. For the 2024-2025 school year, only 92.1% of kindergarteners in the U.S. received the whooping cough vaccine, a decrease from approximately 95% in the pre-pandemic era of 2019-2020.
The rise in whooping cough cases amidst declining vaccination rates poses a significant public health challenge. Health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination to prevent further outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations, particularly infants, who are at the highest risk for severe complications from the disease. As communities rally to address these trends, raising awareness and promoting vaccination will be crucial to controlling this infectious disease.