A Stark Rise in Whooping Cough Cases

Whooping cough is making a dramatic comeback in the United States, with over 8,485 cases reported in early 2025—double the number from last year. This alarming trend is raising red flags among health officials who are bracing themselves for a challenging year ahead.

Understanding the Surge: Why Now?

After a dip in cases during the COVID-19 pandemic due to widespread masking and social distancing, whooping cough cases have surged. Experts explain that this resurgence was anticipated, as illnesses like these tend to peak every two to five years.

The Vaccine Dilemma: Changing Attitudes Towards Immunization

The uptick in vaccine-preventable diseases, including whooping cough and measles, is sparking concern about shifting attitudes toward vaccinations. Kindergarten vaccination rates have declined, and exemptions have reached an all-time high. Dr. Ericka Hayes of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia warns, "There’s been a troubling rise in anti-vaccine sentiment. When vaccination rates dip below 95%, we lose critical herd immunity, putting everyone at greater risk."

Symptoms and Risks: What You Need to Know

Whooping cough, primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, often mimics cold symptoms but escalates to a severe cough accompanied by a distinct 'whoop' as the person gasps for air. The illness can be deadly, particularly for infants who haven’t yet received their vaccinations. Tragically, recent outbreaks have claimed the lives of two babies in Louisiana and a five-year-old in Washington.

Vaccination Rates: A Call to Action

The pertussis vaccine, recommended for children at two, four, and six months, is crucial. Adults should receive boosters every ten years. Dr. Hayes emphasizes the need for increased vaccination during pregnancy to protect newborns, stating, "Unfortunately, the rates of vaccination among pregnant women are not where they need to be."

State Responses: Battling Against the Odds

Pennsylvania, heavily impacted by whooping cough last year, has recorded 207 cases so far in 2025. While 94.6% of kindergarteners are vaccinated, this statistic masks significant vulnerabilities in certain communities. In Michigan, 516 cases have already been reported, primarily among children aged 5 to 17, as health officials grapple with varying vaccination rates that leave many at risk.

Public Health Resources Stretched Thin

As states like Michigan focus resources on contact tracing measles outbreaks, the pressure on public health systems continues to mount. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, notes, "We must keep a watchful eye on whooping cough while navigating our limited resources effectively."