There is a spike in pertussis cases in the United States currently, with over 8,000 cases nationwide as of April 12. This is double the number of cases reported at the same time last year. What is pertussis, also known as whooping cough, and why are we seeing an increase? The Houston Health Department’s Deputy Public Health Authority Dr. Janeana White says the growing number of people diagnosed with the respiratory illness likely has to do with declining vaccine rates.  

“We are definitely seeing an increase in cases reported this year compared with last year,” said Dr. White. “And it is concerning. Overall, we know that vaccine rates are lagging here in Texas and across the US. Unfortunately, as we are seeing with measles, when vaccine coverage drops, diseases increase.” 

Pertussis is a highly contagious illness caused by the bacteria, Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spreads easily from person to person through the air. “When a person with whooping cough sneezes or coughs, they release small particles with the bacteria in them and it can spread when people spend a lot of time together or share breathing space,” said Dr. White. According to the CDC website, babies younger than one year old are at the greatest risk of developing whooping cough and having severe complications from it. Anyone can get pertussis year-round, but there is a peak in the summer/autumn months.  

“Whooping cough appears similar to a common cold early on for those who get sick,” said. Dr. White. “They may experience a runny or stuffed-up nose, a low-grade fever (less than 100.4°F), and a mild, occasional cough. Whooping cough is known for the "whoop" noise someone makes when they are gasping for air after a coughing fit. Babies and young children may not cough but may have difficulty breathing.” 

The DTaP and Tdap vaccines can provide protection against whooping cough, but if you do get sick with pertussis, it's very important that it is treated early before the coughing fits start and symptoms become severe. Doctors can provide an effective antibiotic for treatment.