Whooping Cough Cases Skyrocket Amid Falling Vaccination Rates
The United States is witnessing a sharp increase in whooping cough cases in 2025, continuing a troubling trend that has developed over recent years. According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of reported whooping cough infections has risen dramatically—from 2,116 cases in 2021 to 35,435 in 2024. In just the first few months of 2025, 7,111 cases have already been documented, more than twice the number reported during the same period last year.
One major contributing factor to this surge is a decline in routine childhood vaccinations, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. An analysis by ProPublica of recent federal data shows significant drops in immunization rates for diseases such as hepatitis B, polio, and measles, mumps, and rubella—alongside whooping cough, also known as pertussis. Experts warn that declining vaccination coverage is creating fertile ground for preventable diseases to spread more rapidly within communities.
Understanding Whooping Cough Cases and Its Impact
Whooping cough is a contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. While it can affect individuals of all ages, infants under one year old are especially vulnerable to severe illness and complications. The CDC notes that this age group has the highest risk of hospitalization and even death due to the infection.
The illness often begins with symptoms resembling a common cold—mild coughing, low-grade fever, runny nose, and watery eyes. However, within one to two weeks, it can progress into severe coughing fits that may disrupt sleep, eating, and breathing. These episodes can also cause vomiting and are often marked by a distinctive “whooping” sound when the person breathes in.
Whooping cough is also highly transmissible. According to the Cleveland Clinic, individuals with the infection can spread it from the onset of early symptoms through up to three weeks after their coughing episodes begin, making timely diagnosis and treatment critical in containing outbreaks.
Vaccination, Treatment, and Prevention Measures
Despite its severity, whooping cough is preventable through vaccination. The CDC recommends two types of combination vaccines that protect against pertussis, diphtheria, and tetanus. Infants begin receiving the DTaP vaccine at two months of age, while older children and adults are given the Tdap vaccine. Women are advised to get a Tdap booster during each pregnancy to help protect their newborns until the babies are eligible for their own vaccinations. Additionally, adults are encouraged to receive a Tdap booster every 10 years, as immunity can diminish over time.
Treatment for whooping cough typically involves antibiotics, which help stop the spread of the infection but do not immediately alleviate the symptoms. If administered early, antibiotics may lessen the severity of the illness. In severe cases—especially among infants—hospitalization may be necessary for monitoring and supportive care, including oxygen and fluids.
CDC data shows that roughly one-third of infants under one year who contract whooping cough require hospital care. The most frequent complications include apnea (dangerous pauses in breathing) and pneumonia, and tragically, about one in every 100 infected babies in this age group dies due to complications.
As cases continue to rise, health officials urge the public to stay vigilant, ensure vaccinations are up to date, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms arise.
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