Surge in Whooping Cough Cases Raises Concerns in Texas
Health officials in Texas are sounding an urgent warning about a rise in whooping cough, a common illness among children. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has reported that cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, have skyrocketed to nearly four times the amount compared to last year.
As of October 2025, there have been over 3,500 whooping cough cases documented in Texas, a worrying trend that has been ongoing for the second consecutive year. The DSHS has issued a health alert in response to this alarming situation.
Whooping cough is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis and is highly contagious. The sickness starts with mild symptoms, resembling a cold, such as a runny nose and a slight cough. However, it can quickly escalate into severe coughing spells that may end in a distinctive “whoop” sound when someone struggles to catch their breath.
Experts from the Cleveland Clinic explain that whooping cough progresses through three phases: initial cold-like symptoms, followed by intense coughing, and finally, a gradual recovery. Infants under 12 months old are particularly vulnerable, facing a higher risk of hospitalization, especially if they have weakened immune systems or are not vaccinated.
In babies, the typical “whoop” sound may not be present. Instead, they could experience difficulty breathing or pauses in their breathing, which can be alarming.
While anyone can catch whooping cough, teenagers and adults can also become infected, usually because their immunity from vaccinations has decreased. Their symptoms tend to be milder compared to those in children.
To combat this growing issue, health experts stress the importance of vaccinations for all age groups. Texas health officials emphasize that everyone should be current on their vaccinations to avoid waning immunity. Pregnant women are particularly urged to get the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy, specifically between 27 and 36 weeks, to offer protection to their newborns. Additionally, adults who will have close contact with infants should be vaccinated at least two weeks before exposure.
Health practitioners are advised to test anyone showing symptoms associated with whooping cough. If there is a strong suspicion of infection, treatment can begin even before the results come back. Quick tests, like PCR tests, are recommended for their speed and availability.
Timely treatment is pivotal, regardless of vaccination status, to prevent severe illness and curb the spread of the disease. As health officials continue to monitor the situation, they encourage everyone to stay informed and vigilant during this troubling rise in whooping cough cases.
