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.

The situation is particularly concerning as pertussis can be especially dangerous for babies and young children. Between October 2024 and April 2025, at least four people in the US have died from the disease, including two infants, one school-age child, and one adult.

Health authorities are urging families to stay vigilant and ensure their children receive the recommended pertussis vaccine doses, which provide protection through early adolescence. Booster shots for adolescents and adults are also crucial to maintaining immunity and preventing the further spread of this potentially deadly illness.