On November 14, 2025, Texas health officials issued a public health alert following a dramatic rise in pertussis (whooping cough) cases in the state. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported over 3,500 cases of whooping cough in October alone—four times the number reported during the same month in 2024. This alarming surge in cases has placed Texas in the spotlight as part of a broader national conversation about the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The disease is known for its persistent, severe coughing fits, which are often followed by a distinctive “whooping” sound as the person struggles to catch their breath. While pertussis affects people of all ages, it is especially dangerous for infants and young children, whose weakened immune systems can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, seizures, and even death. Infants under one year old are particularly vulnerable, and the current surge has raised significant concerns for public health officials who are calling for heightened vigilance.
The Texas Department of State Health Services pointed to the continuing trend of declining vaccination rates as a major contributing factor to the rise in pertussis cases. Public health experts have linked lower vaccination coverage to the increase in pertussis, especially as vaccine uptake has slowed across the country in recent years. The pandemic, which caused disruptions to regular healthcare visits and immunization schedules, has exacerbated these trends. Experts are now warning that the post-pandemic period could lead to a resurgence of other preventable diseases if vaccination rates do not improve.
To address the growing concern, Texas health officials are emphasizing the importance of immunization, particularly for pregnant women and anyone in close contact with infants. The DSHS is recommending booster shots for those who are most likely to come into contact with newborns, such as family members, caregivers, and healthcare workers. Pediatricians across the state have echoed these recommendations, urging parents to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date. They also advise that parents take proactive steps in monitoring for symptoms of whooping cough, especially in the event of prolonged coughing fits or breathing difficulties in young children.
The surge in pertussis cases is not an isolated event in Texas. Public health authorities have observed similar patterns across the nation, where diseases like measles, mumps, and pertussis are re-emerging after years of relative control. This resurgence is particularly concerning given the context of a nationwide decline in vaccination rates. Experts suggest that these patterns highlight the vulnerability of populations that are not fully vaccinated and the need for a renewed focus on immunization campaigns.
The DSHS has stressed that early detection and prompt treatment are essential in controlling the spread of pertussis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, which are most effective when administered early in the course of the illness. However, because pertussis is often mistaken for a common cold in its early stages, delays in diagnosis can result in more severe cases, particularly in infants who are at the highest risk for complications.
Public health officials are also calling attention to the importance of continued monitoring for pertussis outbreaks, particularly as the winter season approaches. The colder months often see an increase in respiratory illnesses, and health officials are concerned that the ongoing rise in pertussis cases could coincide with flu season, further stressing healthcare systems.
For residents of Texas and beyond, the message is clear: vaccination remains the most reliable defense against whooping cough and other preventable diseases. Health experts are urging individuals to check their vaccination status and ensure that they are up to date on all recommended immunizations, especially those who are in close contact with vulnerable populations. The resurgence of pertussis serves as a reminder that, while significant progress has been made in the fight against vaccine-preventable diseases, vigilance and continued investment in public health initiatives are essential to prevent further outbreaks.
As Texas confronts this surge in whooping cough cases, the state has joined a broader national effort to raise awareness about the critical role of vaccines in protecting public health. The alert issued by the DSHS on November 14, 2025, not only highlights the urgency of the current situation but also serves as a call to action for communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers to prioritize vaccination and take the necessary steps to safeguard public health, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.
