Whooping cough cases surge amid falling vaccination rates, waning immunity

Rates of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, are on the rise in several states across the country, including Texas, Florida, California, Oregon, and others. The surge in cases is attributed to declining vaccination rates, diminishing immunity, and delays in public health tracking systems, as reported by state and federal health officials. Infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated are at the highest risk of contracting the disease.

Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, a former head of the CDC’s immunization program, emphasized the importance of high vaccination coverage and effective communication to prevent severe outcomes in vulnerable populations. The first pertussis vaccine was introduced in the early 1900s, significantly reducing the prevalence of the disease. Currently, children receive a series of DTaP shots, while teens and adults receive a Tdap booster every 10 years to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.

However, vaccination coverage has declined in recent years, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and an increase in nonmedical exemptions in various states. This has created immunity gaps, leading to a resurgence of pertussis cases nationwide. Texas alone reported over 3,500 cases in 2025, marking a significant increase from previous years.

Several factors contribute to the rise in pertussis cases, including a new law in Texas that makes it easier for parents to claim nonmedical exemptions from school vaccine requirements. This has resulted in a drop in vaccination rates, particularly among Hispanic families who may fear immigration enforcement. Additionally, the switch from whole-cell to acellular pertussis vaccines in the 1990s has led to waning immunity in adults, increasing the risk of transmission to vulnerable populations.

Infants under a year old are at the greatest risk of severe complications from whooping cough, including respiratory distress and pneumonia. The CDC recommends pregnant women receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to pass on antibodies to their babies. Health officials emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment of pertussis, as well as maintaining high vaccination rates to protect vulnerable populations.

As pertussis cases continue to rise, health experts stress the need for a multifaceted approach to combat the disease. Clinicians are advised to be vigilant for pertussis symptoms in patients, especially children and caregivers of newborns. Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine, while pediatricians and family doctors should ensure booster shots for teens and adults.

Public health outreach programs are being reinstated to address the resurgence of pertussis, but limited staffing and resources remain a challenge. Families with newborns are urged to take extra precautions during the holiday season, including ensuring everyone is up to date on their vaccinations and keeping sick visitors away.

In conclusion, the resurgence of whooping cough highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates and early detection of the disease. By implementing comprehensive strategies and promoting vaccination, we can protect the most vulnerable members of our communities from the devastating effects of pertussis.