Surge in Whooping Cough Cases Linked to Declining Vaccination Rates

The United States has reported nearly 28,000 cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, in 2025, marking the second consecutive year with over 25,000 cases. This trend highlights the risks associated with declining vaccination levels, as approximately one-third of infants under one year old who contract the disease require hospitalization. The Pan American Health Organization has confirmed 13 deaths from whooping cough in the U.S. this year, primarily affecting young children. Globally, the World Health Organization reported 977,000 cases in 2024, a five-fold increase from the previous year.

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Experts attribute the rise in whooping cough cases to several factors, including falling vaccination rates and a loss of population immunity exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Scott Roberts, associate medical director for infection prevention at Yale School of Medicine, expressed concern over vaccine hesitancy, stating, “This is a vaccine-preventable illness, and any decline in vaccine rates will lead to increases in pertussis.” Vaccination coverage for the first and third doses of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine dropped to its lowest level in two decades during the pandemic, with rates falling to 87% and 81%, respectively.

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Infants and young children are particularly at risk for severe illness from whooping cough. Symptoms often begin with cold-like signs but can escalate to severe coughing fits, sometimes accompanied by vomiting. Dr. Shira Doron, chief infection control officer for Tufts Medicine, emphasized the importance of early medical intervention for severe symptoms. Health officials have noted that many cases occur among those who are not up to date on their vaccinations, with clusters often found in communities where families delay or decline vaccines.

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In response to the uptick in cases, health officials across various states, including South Carolina and North Carolina, have urged residents to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations. Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina’s state epidemiologist, stated, “The unfortunate increase in these diseases is linked to declining vaccination coverage in that region.” Similarly, Dr. Phil Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, highlighted the importance of parents ensuring their children are fully vaccinated, noting a significant drop in kindergarten vaccination rates against pertussis.

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Critics of the declining vaccination rates argue that the choice not to vaccinate not only increases individual risk but also endangers community health. Dr. Raynard Washington, director of Mecklenburg County Public Health, reported a spike in cases from one or two annually to 68 in 2024, emphasizing the need for community-wide vaccination efforts.

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• “I worry vaccine hesitancy is playing a role.” — Dr. Scott Roberts, Yale School of Medicine

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• “The unfortunate increase in these diseases is linked to declining vaccination coverage in that region and, frankly, across the state,” — Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina State Epidemiologist

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• “That’s the best protection that we can do,” — Dr. Phil Huang, Dallas County Health Authority

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The resurgence of whooping cough in the U.S. underscores the critical need for vaccination to protect vulnerable populations, particularly infants. As health officials continue to advocate for increased vaccination rates, the community's response will be pivotal in reversing this concerning trend.

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