America's Whooping Cough Resurgence: What You Need to Know

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is back with a vengeance in the U. S. This contagious respiratory illness, caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, can be deadly, especially for young children. Since 2020, cases have skyrocketed, with certain states seeing more cases than others. For instance, Ohio and South Dakota have witnessed significant increases. In 2023, over 5, 000 cases were reported nationwide, and preliminary data shows even higher numbers in 2024. Babies are most at risk, as their tiny airways can swell, leading to complications like pneumonia and brain disease. Sadly, 1 in 100 babies who get whooping cough may not survive. Teens and adults can also get sick, though usually not as severely. Vaccines are crucial to protect both babies and adults. Pregnant women can pass on protection to their newborns by getting vaccinated. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted typical whooping cough patterns. So, what can you do? Make sure your vaccines are up to date. It's the best defense against this nasty infection.