In a concerning development, Texas health officials have issued a formal alert regarding a significant increase in cases of pertussis (commonly known as whooping cough) across the state. On November 13, 2025, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported that more than 3,500 cases of pertussis were recorded during October 2025. This marks a dramatic fourfold increase compared to the same month the previous year, continuing a troubling trend of rising cases in recent years.
The uptick in pertussis cases comes as part of a broader national concern over the resurgence of respiratory illnesses, compounded by a decrease in routine vaccinations, particularly among children. This surge is the second consecutive year that Texas has experienced a substantial increase in pertussis incidence, prompting health officials to take swift action. DSHS has emphasized that while early symptoms of pertussis may resemble those of a common cold—such as a runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever—the disease can progress rapidly and pose serious risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like infants, pregnant women, and those in close contact with newborns.
Pertussis, though preventable through vaccination, can be especially dangerous for infants under one year of age. Health experts note that infants, who are not yet fully vaccinated, are at the greatest risk of severe complications from the disease, including pneumonia, seizures, and even death. What is particularly concerning is that infants may not exhibit the classic “whooping” sound when they cough, a hallmark of pertussis, but rather may experience severe difficulty breathing, including gasping and turning blue. For these infants, hospitalization and intensive care may be necessary.
This surge in cases follows a broader pattern observed in the United States, where vaccine coverage has declined in recent years. In addition to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread disruptions in routine health care and vaccination schedules, there has been growing concern about the rising anti-vaccine movement and the spread of misinformation about vaccine safety. This has led to a decrease in vaccination rates, particularly in certain communities, making it easier for diseases like pertussis to resurge.
In response to the growing outbreak, DSHS has stressed the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations, particularly the Tdap vaccine, which protects against pertussis. Health officials recommend that all pregnant individuals receive a booster shot of the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to help protect their newborns from the disease. Additionally, caregivers and others in close contact with infants should ensure they are vaccinated to reduce the risk of transmission. DSHS also advises parents and guardians to consult their primary care providers or pediatricians to confirm that their children are up to date on their vaccinations.
This alert also underscores the importance of vigilance among the general public, especially during the colder months when respiratory infections tend to spread more easily. Texans are being urged to take extra precautions, particularly if they are in high‑risk environments such as daycares, schools, and healthcare settings, where the spread of infectious diseases can occur rapidly. Health officials are also asking anyone who develops a persistent cough, especially those in close contact with infants, to seek medical advice and avoid close contact with vulnerable individuals until they are evaluated.
The timing of the surge in pertussis cases is particularly concerning, as pertussis outbreaks tend to peak in the fall and winter months. DSHS has warned that the situation may worsen before it improves, as more cases are typically reported in the coming weeks. The Texas health agency is continuing to monitor the situation closely, with an eye on the possibility of further spikes in cases as the year progresses.
This rise in pertussis cases serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination, not only to protect individual health but also to safeguard public health, particularly in communities where high levels of exposure to vulnerable individuals exist. The increasing incidence of whooping cough in Texas and other states highlights the need for continued public health efforts to ensure that everyone—especially infants and pregnant women—has access to timely and effective vaccination. As the state grapples with this growing issue, DSHS is urging all Texans to stay informed and take the necessary steps to prevent further spread of this potentially life-threatening disease.
