What is the current situation with whooping cough in Texas?

Texas is facing a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with over 3,500 reported through October 2025 - nearly four times the number seen during the same period last year.

How are health officials in Texas responding to the whooping cough outbreak?

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH) is sounding the alarm on the outbreak and stressing the importance of staying up-to-date on pertussis vaccinations to prevent the spread of this highly contagious respiratory illness.

Who is most at risk from the whooping cough outbreak in Texas?

Infants under 12 months are at the greatest risk of complications and hospitalization from whooping cough, also known as pertussis.

Home / Health / Texas Faces Alarming Surge in Whooping Cough Cases

Texas Faces Alarming Surge in Whooping Cough Cases

14 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Texas reports nearly 4 times more whooping cough cases than last year
Over 3,500 pertussis cases in Texas through October 2025
Health officials urge everyone to stay up-to-date on vaccinations

Texas Faces Alarming Surge in Whooping Cough Cases

As of November 14, 2025, Texas is facing a significant outbreak of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH), the state has reported over 3,500 cases of the highly contagious respiratory illness through October 2025 - nearly four times the number of cases seen during the same period last year.

This is the second consecutive year that Texas has experienced a sharp increase in whooping cough cases, prompting health officials to issue a new alert. Pertussis typically begins with cold-like symptoms but can progress to severe coughing fits that may end in a distinctive "whoop" sound as the person gasps for air. While anyone can contract the disease, infants under 12 months are at the greatest risk of complications and hospitalization.