Whooping cough cases in the United States have hit a decade high, with over 32,000 cases reported this year alone as per the latest CDC report. The increase is alarming, as the count has more than doubled in just the last 12 weeks, jumping from around 14,000 cases by mid-September to 32,136 by December 14. This six-fold rise in whooping cough cases compared to 2023 stems from several factors, including waning vaccine protection and lower vaccination rates.
Commonly known as pertussis, whooping cough is a highly contagious infection affecting the respiratory tract. While it primarily impacts children, teenagers and adults can also become infected. Although fatalities are rare, the condition is most dangerous for infants who have not completed their vaccination schedule. Without proper immunization, these young children are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from the illness.
The symptoms of whooping cough often develop over about a week, starting with a runny nose, fever, and mild cough, which may worsen over time. In some cases, prolonged coughing can lead to serious issues such as vomiting or breathing difficulties. While most individuals recover, complications like pneumonia, dehydration, and even seizures can arise, especially in infants under six months. To mitigate these risks, the CDC recommends whooping cough vaccination for everyone. Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent this dangerous illness and protect our communities.