Story perspectives
Florida Sees 81% Surge in Pertussis Cases Amid Vaccine Decline
10/21/2025
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Story summary
- Florida reports 1,295 pertussis cases as of September 27, an 81% increase from 2024.
- Florida's vaccine mandate ban coincides with kindergarten Tdap vaccination dropping to 92% from 95% in 2019.
- Health officials warn that pertussis remains dangerous for infants.
- The Tdap vaccine is 98% effective in children within a year of vaccination.
- Experts say the lower vaccination rate could raise health risks for young children.
