State Health Officials Warn of Whooping Cough Surge
Texas health officials are sounding the alarm on a sharp increase in whooping cough cases, with over 3,500 infections reported through October 2025, nearly quadruple the number from last year. This surge has prompted health alerts and calls for increased vaccination efforts to curb the spread of the highly contagious respiratory infection.
Medical professionals warn that the pertussis bacteria, which causes whooping cough, remains a significant public health concern. The infection begins with cold-like symptoms but can progress to severe coughing episodes, which may end in a high-pitched ‘whoop’ as the person gasps for air. Infants, especially those under one year old, are particularly vulnerable to the disease, with complications such as hospitalization and even death posing a serious threat.
State officials have reported that the second year in a row has seen a marked rise in whooping cough cases, leading to repeated health alerts. Public health experts stress that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease, especially among at-risk populations such as infants and pregnant women. Health officials recommend that pregnant women receive the Tdap shot during each pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation, to protect newborns. Adults who are in close contact with infants are also advised to get vaccinated at least two weeks before potential exposure.
Although teenagers and adults may experience milder symptoms, they are still susceptible to the disease due to waning immunity from childhood vaccines. Clinicians are encouraging prompt testing and early treatment to prevent severe outcomes and reduce transmission. Health officials also emphasize the importance of staying up to date with vaccines to maintain immunity and prevent further spread of the infection.
With health officials highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and action, the focus remains on vaccination campaigns and early intervention strategies to mitigate the impact of this public health crisis.