Resurgence of Whooping Cough: What You Need to Know

 
A video of a boy with pertussis (whooping cough), demonstrating the cough's distinctive "whoop" sound. US Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is making headlines again as cases surge across the United States. A recent CNN article highlights the troubling rise in infections, pointing to gaps in vaccination, waning immunity, and other social and structural factors as key contributors. At Infection Intersection, we’re breaking down the resurgence of pertussis and what it means for you and your community.

What Is Pertussis?
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It’s marked by severe coughing fits that can leave individuals gasping for air, often producing a high-pitched "whoop" sound, especially in children. The disease can lead to complications such as pneumonia, seizures, and even death, particularly in infants and people with weakened immune systems (World Health Organization).

Microscopic image of Bordetella pertussis bacteria, the cause of whooping cough
University of Georgia. "Study Explains Resurgence of Pertussis." UGA Research News, 24 Oct. 2023, research.uga.edu/news/study-explains-resurgence-of-pertussis/.

Why Are Cases Rising?
The recent surge in pertussis cases can be traced to several factors. Immunity from the pertussis vaccine or a past infection weakens over time, leaving older children and adults more vulnerable. Gaps in vaccination coverage have widened due to vaccine hesitancy and disruptions in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating areas with low immunity (NHS). Additionally, the influx of undocumented immigrants, many of whom may be unvaccinated, along with overcrowded living conditions in shelters, has contributed to the spread of infectious diseases like pertussis. Improved diagnostic tools and greater awareness among healthcare providers may also explain the rise in reported cases.

Consider the story of Helen, a 72-year-old woman with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). As the infectious disease physician on call, I saw Helen when she was admitted to the hospital with difficulty breathing after weeks of a worsening cough. She had spent time with her grandchildren before falling ill. Testing revealed she had a severe case of pertussis, and it was noted she hadn’t received a Tdap booster in over a decade. Her condition deteriorated quickly, leading to respiratory failure and requiring intensive care. Helen was placed on a ventilator, and while treatment eventually improved her condition, she remained debilitated for months, struggling with reduced lung function and fatigue. Her case is a sobering reminder of the dangers of pertussis in older adults, especially those with preexisting conditions, and highlights the critical importance of Tdap boosters and prompt medical attention.

The Role of Vaccination
Vaccination is the best defense against pertussis. The CDC recommends the DTaP vaccine for children and the Tdap booster for adolescents, pregnant individuals, and adults. Vaccinating pregnant individuals can protect newborns, the most vulnerable to severe complications, by passing antibodies to them before birth. However, vaccination works best when everyone participates to maintain herd immunity and prevent transmission.

Recognizing Pertussis Symptoms
Early detection is key to managing pertussis. Symptoms usually develop in three stages:

  1. Mild cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose and low fever.
  2. Intense coughing fits, which may cause vomiting or exhaustion.
  3. A lingering cough during recovery that can last for weeks or months.

Recognizing these symptoms early allows for timely treatment and helps limit the spread of the disease. Antibiotics like azithromycin or erythromycin are only effective during the early stages of pertussis, before the severe coughing fits begin. Once the disease progresses, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications (Mayo Clinic).

Protecting Yourself and Your Community
Keeping your vaccinations up to date is vital for protecting yourself and others. Encourage family and friends to get vaccinated to strengthen herd immunity, particularly to protect infants and the elderly. If you or someone you know has a persistent cough, consult a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation. Practicing good hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and washing your hands frequently, can also help reduce the spread of pertussis and other respiratory infections (Johns Hopkins Medicine).

Final Thoughts
The resurgence of pertussis reminds us how crucial it is to maintain high vaccination rates and address barriers to healthcare. Public health efforts must prioritize education, accessibility, and the development of vaccines that provide longer-lasting immunity. It’s equally important to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations, including immigrants and those in overcrowded living conditions. At Infection Intersection, we’ll continue to track this issue and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Call to Action
Have you or someone you know been affected by pertussis? Share your story in the comments or on our social media platforms. Together, we can raise awareness and support efforts to combat this preventable disease.

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Topics Covered:
Whooping cough, Bordetella pertussis, vaccination, Tdap boosters, symptoms of pertussis, antibiotics, herd immunity, healthcare barriers, immigrant health, hygiene, public health education.

Labels:
Whooping Cough, Pertussis, Bordetella pertussis, Tdap Boosters, Vaccination, Public Health, Antibiotics, Symptoms, Herd Immunity, Healthcare Access, Hygiene.

Sources:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Vaccines and Immunizations." CDC, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2024, www.cdc.gov/vaccines/index.html.
  • CNN. "Whooping Cough Cases Surging in the United States." CNN Health, 2024, www.cnn.com.
  • Johns Hopkins Medicine. "Hygiene Tips for Preventing Respiratory Infections." Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023, www.hopkinsmedicine.org.
  • Mayo Clinic. "Pertussis (Whooping Cough)." Mayo Clinic Health System, 2024, www.mayoclinic.org.
  • National Health Service (NHS). "Whooping Cough Vaccination." NHS, UK Department of Health, 2024, www.nhs.uk.
  • World Health Organization. "Pertussis." WHO, 2024, www.who.int.
Location: New York, NY, USA

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