Texas health officials have sounded the alarm on a surge in whooping cough cases, reporting near-quadruple the number of infections compared to the previous year. Through October 2025, the state has recorded over 3,500 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, according to provisional data. This marks the second consecutive year of rising cases, with a health alert issued for the third year in a row. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH) is urging residents to prioritize vaccination to prevent the spread of the highly contagious respiratory infection.
Pertussis is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and typically presents with cold-like symptoms early on before progressing to intense coughing fits, often ending in a characteristic ‘whoop’ as the affected person gasps for air. While most adults experience milder symptoms, the disease poses a severe risk to infants under 12 months, who may not exhibit the classic symptoms and are more vulnerable to complications like hospitalization and even death. Health officials stress that early treatment is critical for preventing the spread of the infection and minimizing the risk of severe outcomes, particularly among high-risk groups such as pregnant women and individuals in close contact with infants.
Despite the rise in cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends pertussis vaccination for all age groups to maintain immunity and reduce transmission. Texas officials emphasize the importance of staying up to date with immunizations, as vaccine protection wanes over time. Pregnant women are advised to receive a Tdap shot during each pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks, to protect newborns. Meanwhile, adults in contact with infants should also be vaccinated at least two weeks prior to exposure. Clinicians are encouraged to test patients showing symptoms consistent with pertussis, with PCR tests being the preferred method due to their speed and availability.
In light of the outbreak, health officials are urging the public to take preventive measures, including vaccination and adherence to hygiene practices. The state’s health alert for the second year in a row underscores the severity of the situation and the necessity for continued vigilance to contain the spread of whooping cough. With over 3,500 confirmed cases in Texas, the public health community is closely monitoring the trend to assess the long-term impact of the outbreak and its potential consequences for vulnerable populations.