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Apr 8, 2025|El Paso Emergency Room

The Comeback Cough: Why Pertussis Cases Are on the Rise

Understanding Pertussis: The Comeback Cough

honey from a jarUnderstanding Pertussis

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness.  Whooping cough caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can last for weeks or even months, often accompanied by a distinctive “whoop” sound during inhalation. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it exceptionally transmissible. Vaccination against pertussis has been part of childhood immunization schedules since the 1940s, but immunity tends to wane over time, necessitating booster shots throughout life.

world vs corona signRising Pertussis Cases: Recent Trends

Statistical Surge in Cases

In recent years, there has been a significant surge in pertussis cases in the U.S. In 2024, whooping cough cases exceeded 17,500, marking a 340% increase from 2023. Washington State experienced a dramatic rise in cases from 51 in 2023 to 1,200 in 2024. Similarly, Louisiana reported 110 cases in early 2024, nearing the total for the previous year, with two [infant deaths](https://www.eper.Pertussis, or whooping cough, is surging in the U.S., with alarming increases in cases and fatalities, particularly among infants, prompting urgent calls for vaccination. Nationally, the CDC reported over 35,000 cases in 2023, the highest in over a decade, with 10 fatalities, including six infants. This rise in cases is primarily linked to a decline in vaccination rates among young children due to pandemic disruptions and vaccine hesitancy.

Factors Contributing to the Increase

Causes of the Resurgence

The resurgence of pertussis can be attributed to several factors. The decrease in masking and social distancing has led to a return to pre-pandemic infection levels. Waning immunity from vaccines like DTaP and Tdap has increased susceptibility among older children and adults. Additionally, genetic changes in the bacteria and improved diagnostic tests have contributed to the rise in reported cases. Increased awareness and reporting have also resulted in more diagnoses, adding to the apparent increase in incidence. During the pandemic, public health messaging shifted focus, potentially reducing attention on routine vaccinations.

Importance of Vaccination and Booster Shots

Vaccination Strategies

Vaccination remains a crucial strategy in combating pertussis. The CDC recommends Tdap vaccination during pregnancy, which protects 90% of newborns from hospitalization due to whooping cough. Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine in their third trimester to protect their newborns. Adults are advised to get a Tdap booster every 10 years to maintain immunity. The vaccination schedules for children include doses at 2, 4, and 6 months, again before age 2, and once during adolescence. The effectiveness of the DTaP vaccine diminishes over time, making booster shots necessary for both children and adults.

Symptoms and Complications of Pertussis

cough syrupIdentifying Pertussis Symptoms

Early symptoms of pertussis mimic those of a cold, including a runny nose and mild cough, but they progress to severe coughing fits. Infants under one year are at the highest risk, with one-third requiring hospitalization if infected. Complications can include apnea and pneumonia, which are especially dangerous for infants and those with pre-existing conditions. Long-term complications can arise, such as rib fractures from severe coughing or loss of consciousness during coughing fits. Adults infected with pertussis may experience prolonged coughing that can last weeks, disrupting daily activities and sleep.

face maskTreatment Options and Emergency Room Care

Effective Management of Pertussis

Antibiotics like azithromycin are effective in treating pertussis if administered early, underscoring the importance of timely diagnosis. Severe cases may require hospitalization, highlighting the need for facilities like El Paso Emergency Room, which offers state-of-the-art technology and board-certified physicians for immediate care. Patients presenting with severe symptoms may undergo diagnostic tests, including PCR tests, to confirm pertussis. In emergency settings, supportive care may involve intravenous fluids and respiratory support, especially for infants and severe cases.

Public Health Initiatives and Prevention

Controlling the Pertussis Outbreak

The CDC’s “From Me, To You” initiative promotes Tdap vaccination, particularly during pregnancy. Strategies like “cocooning,” which involves vaccinating household members, help shield infants from infection. Public health campaigns emphasize the importance of staying up-to-date with vaccinations to prevent outbreaks. Community health discussions often highlight the need for increased vaccination rates among school-aged children to prevent school outbreaks. Local health departments are enhancing outreach programs to educate parents about the importance of vaccinations and pertussis prevention.

Protecting Your Health: Next Steps

Protecting Your Health

Staying informed and vaccinated is crucial to combating the rise in pertussis cases. For immediate treatment and high-quality emergency care, visit El Paso Emergency Room or explore more at El Paso Emergency Room’s website.

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