Why is whooping cough (pertussis) increasing in the United States?

Pertussis is surging due to lower vaccination rates, waning immunity, and slower public health tracking systems.

Are babies at risk from the current whooping cough outbreak?

Yes, infants are highly vulnerable, with a significant risk of pneumonia and a small but critical chance of death.

What is the CDC recommending to combat the whooping cough rise?

The CDC stresses early detection, ensuring everyone is vaccinated, and pregnant women getting the Tdap vaccine.

Home / Health / Whooping Cough Surges: U.S. Sees Alarming Pertussis Resurgence

Whooping Cough Surges: U.S. Sees Alarming Pertussis Resurgence

20 Nov

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Summary

Whooping cough cases are rapidly increasing across the US, impacting multiple states.
Declining vaccination rates and waning immunity are primary drivers of the outbreak.
Infants remain the most vulnerable group, facing severe complications and mortality risks.

Whooping cough (pertussis) is experiencing a notable resurgence across the United States, with alarming increases observed in states including Texas, Florida, and California. This rise is primarily driven by a combination of decreasing vaccination rates, diminished immunity over time, and challenges in public health surveillance systems.

Infants are identified as the most vulnerable population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately one in five infants with pertussis develop pneumonia, and about 1% unfortunately succumb to the infection. Pregnant women are urged to receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to pass antibodies to their newborns.

Public health experts emphasize the critical role of early detection and widespread vaccination in mitigating the outbreak. Clinicians are advised to consider pertussis in cases of persistent cough, particularly in infants and their caregivers. Ensuring children, teenagers, and adults are up-to-date on their immunizations is paramount to protecting communities.

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