"Whooping Cough Cases Surge 1,500%, Two Dead, Experts Warn of Outbreak"
"Cases of the highly contagious bacterial infection are on the rise across the U.S. as vaccination rates continue to drop."
Across the United States, health officials are witnessing an alarming rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases, a highly contagious bacterial infection that poses a significant risk to infants. Experts are sounding the alarm, drawing parallels to the recent surge in measles cases, and warning that whooping cough could become the next major outbreak impacting thousands of Americans.
A 1,500% Surge in Cases
Since 2021, the number of whooping cough cases nationwide has reportedly skyrocketed by more than 1,500%. This dramatic spike in infections is not isolated to one region but is being observed across various states, with some areas experiencing particularly severe outbreaks. One such state is Texas, where cases have surged in conjunction with the ongoing measles crisis.
In Laredo, Texas, health officials have reported more cases of whooping cough this year than in all of 2024 combined. Dr. Richard Chamberlain, director of Laredo Public Health, told The Laredo Morning Times, "We’ve seen more cases of whooping cough this year in Laredo than in the past few years. This isn’t just happening in Laredo; other places in Texas are also seeing more cases. Right now, we’re keeping a close eye on it. There’s no need to panic, but it’s important to stay informed and take simple steps to help keep everyone safe."
A Threat to Infants
Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for infants under one year old. The infection can lead to severe complications, such as pneumonia, seizures, and in some cases, life-threatening pauses in breathing. Tragically, deaths from whooping cough are on the rise. Over the past six months, two infants have died in Louisiana – the first fatalities from the infection in the state since 2018.
The Louisiana Office of the Surgeon General issued a warning, noting that many babies who contract whooping cough are infected by family members or caregivers who may not even be aware that they are carrying the bacteria. "About half of babies younger than a year old who get whooping cough will need hospital care," the office stated earlier this month.
In 2025, Louisiana has already reported 110 cases, and the state had a total of 154 cases for all of 2024. North Carolina has also seen a sharp increase, with 166 cases reported so far in 2025. Meanwhile, Michigan has reported 520 cases, highlighting the widespread nature of the outbreak.
National Trends: A Dramatic Increase
The nationwide rise in whooping cough cases is undeniable. In 2023, the U.S. saw 7,063 cases, but by 2024, that number had surged to 35,435 cases. The increase is particularly concerning, as 10 deaths were reported in 2024, the majority of whom were infants under one year old. In contrast, single-digit fatalities had been reported in the previous three years.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, this is the highest number of whooping cough cases seen in over a decade. Dr. Andrea Garcia, Vice President of Science, Medicine, and Public Health at the American Medical Association, expressed concern, stating, “This rise in cases nationwide is something to keep an eye on and to be concerned about.”
The Link to Declining Vaccination Rates
One of the primary factors behind this surge in whooping cough cases is the declining vaccination rates across the country. The best way to protect against pertussis is through vaccination, although immunity from the vaccine tends to wane over time. Experts are linking the recent outbreaks to communities with lower vaccination rates, leaving large segments of the population vulnerable to infection.
Dr. Lisa Morici, a microbiology and immunology professor at Tulane University School of Medicine, explained, “When you start to see these outbreaks … it tends to be as a result of that increased circulation of the microbe in the community, as well as populations with no immunity or reduced immunity that are susceptible to the infection.”
Without widespread immunization, the risk of pertussis spreading through communities increases, with babies and young children being the most vulnerable. Infants are especially at risk, as they may develop severe complications that require hospitalization. Some babies with whooping cough may even experience respiratory distress, leading to difficulty breathing or other life-threatening issues.
A Bright-Red Warning Light
While much attention has been given to measles outbreaks in recent years, experts are urging that the resurgence of whooping cough is a significant public health concern in its own right. Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatric infectious diseases doctor in New York City, compared the rise in whooping cough cases to a "bright-red warning light," highlighting the urgent need for increased vaccination efforts and community awareness.
“It’s not just measles,” Dr. Ratner noted. “We’re seeing outbreaks of other preventable diseases, and it’s a stark reminder that vaccinations are crucial in preventing these infections.”
How to Protect Your Family
The best way to protect against whooping cough is through vaccination. The Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, is recommended for adolescents and adults. Pregnant women are also encouraged to get the vaccine during each pregnancy to help protect their newborns from contracting whooping cough in the first few months of life.
Health experts stress the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent further outbreaks. In addition to getting vaccinated, families are urged to stay informed and take precautions to protect vulnerable populations, especially infants, from exposure to this dangerous infection.
Conclusion
The surge in whooping cough cases across the United States serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. As cases continue to rise, experts are sounding the alarm that the country may be facing another public health crisis, similar to the recent measles outbreaks. It is crucial for communities to remain vigilant, follow public health guidelines, and ensure that vaccination rates are improved to help prevent further illness and loss of life.
By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, we can protect our most vulnerable populations and prevent whooping cough from becoming a widespread outbreak.