Whooping cough, or pertussis, is making a dangerous comeback, and the surge is being felt more than ever in the D.C. area and across the nation. As of this year, a staggering 743 cases have been reported in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, a shocking increase in comparison to just 111 cases recorded in all of 2023, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Certified physician assistant Amanda Joy, who is also the associate medical director at MedStar Health Urgent Care centers, highlighted the contagious nature of the disease. "It’s incredibly contagious," she emphasized, noting that just since October, 20 patients have been treated for whooping cough at their clinics alone.

This infectious disease is usually kept at bay with a tetanus shot, particularly in school communities, where clusters are now reported. “Individuals who are unvaccinated or haven’t received a booster shot in a while are particularly at risk,” Joy warned.

Nationwide, outbreaks are being declared as states report hundreds of confirmed cases. This year alone has seen a national total of 23,544 cases, a dramatic rise from the 5,074 cases recorded last year. The CDC indicates that this year marks a troubling return to pre-pandemic levels, reminiscent of previous years when over 10,000 cases were reported annually.

The spread of whooping cough is closely monitored. Local health departments track these cases meticulously, allowing them to identify and respond quickly to outbreaks. Joy mentioned the rigorous contact tracing protocols in practice, stating, “We must ensure that all clinic staff are masked during any patient interactions who may be infected.”

Initial symptoms of whooping cough resemble those of a common cold: runny nose and congestion. However, as the illness progresses, a distinctive, intense cough develops — it’s so severe that it can lead to vomiting due to the body’s struggle to catch its breath. “The 'whoop' sound typically emerges around one to two weeks in and can persist for months,” Joy explained.

While antibiotics can treat most cases of whooping cough, the illness can be extremely serious or even deadly for infants. “Babies are particularly vulnerable; they may need hospitalization one-third of the time when infected, as they can pause their breathing instead of producing the characteristic whooping sound, risking severe complications,” Joy cautioned. Parents who suspect their child has whooping cough are urged to seek medical attention immediately.

Moreover, adults are not exempt from the threat; getting the Tdap vaccine — which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis — every 10 years is crucial in preventing the illness. However, the CDC warns that vaccinated individuals can still contract the disease, primarily due to adjustments made to whooping cough vaccines, limited diagnostic testing, and evolving strains of the bacteria since the 1990s.

To help curb the outbreak, experts stress the importance of preventive measures: wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and staying home when feeling unwell are effective strategies. The CDC highlights that the disease is most contagious during the first two weeks after the onset of coughing, making it essential for individuals to be vigilant.

In light of this alarming resurgence, communities must prioritize awareness and preventive action — are we collectively doing enough to protect ourselves and our children from this dangerous illness? Make sure to educate yourself and those around you as we navigate these concerning times.