The United States is experiencing a significant rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases, reaching levels not seen in over a decade. The resurgence, particularly dangerous for infants, is directly linked to falling vaccination rates across the country.
Case Numbers and Geographic Hotspots
As of late 2025, over 27,000 cases have been reported nationally – a fourfold increase compared to 2023. Several states are facing severe outbreaks:
- Oregon has surpassed its historical case record from 1950, including one infant fatality.
- Texas has logged over 3,500 cases, a fourfold increase year-over-year.
- Kentucky, Louisiana, and South Dakota have each reported multiple infant deaths due to pertussis in 2025.
The trend is clear: despite the illness being highly preventable through vaccination, cases are climbing, raising concerns about public health infrastructure.
The Role of Declining Vaccination Coverage
Experts attribute the surge to a decline in childhood vaccination rates. An investigation by NBC News and Stanford University found that roughly 70% of counties across 31 states fall below the 95% vaccination threshold needed for community protection. In Texas, nearly 60% of counties missed this critical level.
Weakening immunity in older children and adults also contributes. The longer it has been since a person’s last vaccine or booster, the greater their risk of contracting whooping cough if exposed.
What is Whooping Cough and Why is it Dangerous?
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection spread through respiratory droplets. It begins with mild cold-like symptoms but quickly escalates into severe coughing fits, potentially lasting for months. The name comes from the characteristic “whoop” sound made when gasping for air after a coughing fit.
Infants are particularly vulnerable because of their narrow airways, which can lead to life-threatening breathing pauses. Babies under 3 months old rely on maternal antibodies and the immunity of those around them until they can receive their own vaccinations.
Vaccination Recommendations
The CDC recommends vaccination against whooping cough for all ages:
- Infants and young children: DTaP vaccine at 2, 4, and 6 months, with boosters at 15–18 months and between 4–6 years.
- Preteens, teens, and adults: A single Tdap booster dose, with further boosters every 10 years.
- Pregnant women: Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy (ideally between 27 and 36 weeks) to pass protective antibodies to the baby.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection and protect vulnerable populations.
Preventing Spread and Future Outlook
In addition to vaccination, preventive measures include staying away from infants if sick, practicing frequent handwashing, and avoiding close contact with vulnerable individuals when ill. Antibiotics can also be prescribed to reduce transmission risk.
Unless vaccination rates improve, experts predict continued outbreaks. The current trend underscores the importance of public health measures and maintaining high vaccination coverage to safeguard communities.
