Story perspectives

Whooping Cough Cases Surge as Vaccination Rates Plummet

11/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, the U.S. reported over 25,000 cases of whooping cough, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This increase marks the second consecutive year of elevated cases, with fatalities occurring in Louisiana and Washington.
Vaccination rates have declined, with only 92.1% of kindergarteners vaccinated during the 2024-25 school year, down from 95% in 2019-2020.
The illness, caused by Bordetella pertussis, poses significant risks, particularly to infants, and early antibiotic treatment can help manage symptoms.

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Story summary

In 2025, the U.S. reported over 25,000 cases of whooping cough, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This increase marks the second consecutive year of elevated cases, with fatalities occurring in Louisiana and Washington.
Vaccination rates have declined, with only 92.1% of kindergarteners vaccinated during the 2024-25 school year, down from 95% in 2019-2020.
The illness, caused by Bordetella pertussis, poses significant risks, particularly to infants, and early antibiotic treatment can help manage symptoms.