You might think whooping cough is one of those old-timey illnesses that vanished along with rotary phones and floppy disks. But guess what? It’s back—and in a big way. Doctors across the U.S. are reporting a sharp rise in cases, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of the worst years in decades, with two infants in Louisiana having already passed away from the infection. So, what exactly is whooping cough, why is it on the rise, and how can you protect yourself and your family? Let’s break it down
What Is Whooping Cough, Anyway?
Whooping cough—also known as pertussis—is a highly contagious bacterial infection that targets the respiratory system. It’s caused by Bordetella pertussis, and its calling card is a brutal cough that can last for weeks. In some cases, the coughing fits are so intense that they cause vomiting, cracked ribs, or even fainting
The name “whooping cough” comes from the telltale “whoop” sound some people make when gasping for air after a coughing spell—though not everyone gets the classic whoop, especially adults
A Quick Trip Through History
Whooping cough isn’t new. It’s been around for centuries, with major outbreaks recorded as far back as the 16th century. Before vaccines, it was a common cause of childhood death
In the 1940s, everything changed with the introduction of the DTP vaccine. Cases plummeted, and by the early 2000s, many thought whooping cough was a problem of the past
Spoiler: It wasn’t
Why Is It on the Rise Now?
There are a few key reasons we’re seeing a resurgence:
- Vaccine Hesitancy: According to a recent ProPublica investigation, vaccine skepticism—fueled by misinformation and political rhetoric—has led to a drop in immunization rates. President Trump has publicly questioned vaccine safety, influencing public attitudes, especially in conservative communities
- Waning Immunity: Even people who were vaccinated as kids may no longer be fully protected. Immunity from the current acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP or Tdap) fades over time, often within 5–10 years
- Gaps in Booster Shots: Adults and teens often skip their Tdap booster shots, meaning large swaths of the population are unknowingly vulnerable
- Outbreak Clusters: When vaccination rates fall in specific communities, localized outbreaks can spiral quickly—especially in schools, daycares, and households with unvaccinated kids
According to WXYZ Detroit, the number of reported cases in early 2025 has already surpassed all of 2023, with health officials bracing for a nationwide surge
Symptoms: What to Watch For
Whooping cough often starts off looking like the common cold. That’s what makes it tricky. Here’s how it progresses:
Early Stage (1–2 weeks):
- Runny nose
- Mild cough
- Low fever
- Sneezing
Paroxysmal Stage (2–6+ weeks):
- Severe coughing fits
- Vomiting after coughing
- Exhaustion
- “Whoop” sound when inhaling (mostly in children)
Recovery Stage (weeks to months):
- Gradual improvement, though coughing can linger
Infants, in particular, are at high risk. They may stop breathing altogether or turn blue during coughing spells. That’s why prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical
How to Stay Safe
Here’s how you can protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Get Vaccinated (or Boosted): The CDC recommends:
- DTaP for infants and children (5 doses)
- Tdap booster for preteens, pregnant women (during each pregnancy), and adults every 10 years
- Stay Informed: If there’s an outbreak in your community, be extra cautious—especially around young kids or immunocompromised people
- Practice Respiratory Hygiene: Cover your cough, wash your hands often, and stay home if you’re sick
- Watch for Symptoms: Early diagnosis can limit spread and reduce complications. See a doctor if you or your child develops a prolonged cough
Final Thoughts
Whooping cough may seem like a relic from the past, but its return is very real—and preventable. Vaccines remain our strongest defense, but they only work if people actually get them. Whether you’re a new parent, a teen overdue for a booster, or just someone trying to dodge the next wave of infectious diseases, staying up to date on your shots and encouraging others to do the same makes a real difference
It’s time to take whooping cough seriously—because it’s not just a nuisance. For the most vulnerable among us, it can be life-threatening. So check your vaccine status, spread facts (not coughs), and stay healthy out there
