What is the current status of whooping cough cases in the US?

In 2025, the US has recorded over 20,900 cases of whooping cough, a significant increase from the 2,993 cases seen in 2023.

What factors are contributing to the rise of whooping cough in the US?

Declining vaccination rates, especially in children, and changes in the type of pertussis vaccine used are key factors driving the resurgence of whooping cough in the US.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected whooping cough cases?

During the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2022, pertussis cases were lower than usual, likely due to social distancing and other measures. However, cases have since surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

Home / Health / Whooping Cough Cases Surge Past 20,000 in US Amid Vaccine Hesitancy

Whooping Cough Cases Surge Past 20,000 in US Amid Vaccine Hesitancy

15 Nov

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Summary

Whooping cough cases in US reach 20,939 as of Nov 2025, up from 2,993 in 2023
Vaccination rates for whooping cough have declined in children over past 2 years
4 deaths from pertussis reported in US between Oct 2024 and Apr 2025

Whooping Cough Cases Surge Past 20,000 in US Amid Vaccine Hesitancy

As of November 15, 2025, the United States is grappling with a significant surge in whooping cough, also known as pertussis, a highly contagious bacterial infection. The country has already recorded 20,939 cases for the year, slightly lower than the 21,391 cases reported during the same period in 2024, but significantly higher than the 2,993 cases seen in 2023.

The rise in pertussis cases has prompted a health alert in Texas, and rates are also increasing in other states. Experts attribute this resurgence to a combination of factors, including the cyclical nature of the disease and changes in the type of vaccine used. Additionally, vaccination rates for whooping cough have declined in children over the past two years, contributing to the spread of the infection.