The United States is experiencing a concerning increase in pertussis cases alongside rising measles outbreaks, with over 7,599 pertussis cases reported this year compared to 3,473 last year. The decline in childhood vaccination rates and an increase in vaccine exemptions contribute to this trend, resulting in inevitable outbreaks of diseases. Measles cases have already surged past 700 this year, with two fatalities recorded. Pertussis remains particularly deadly for infants, with multiple child deaths reported in states like Louisiana and Washington.
With a record number of parents seeking vaccine exemptions for their children and childhood vaccination rates declining, more outbreaks of measles, pertussis, and other diseases are not just likely, they're inevitable.
This is a troublesome trend. Last year, there were 285 cases of measles for all of 2024. This year, cases have already risen to over 700, and two children have died of the disease.
A type of bacterial infection, whooping cough is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It causes flu-like symptoms and violent, rapid coughing.
The disease is especially dangerous for babies because it can interfere with their breathing.
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