Whooping Cough Cases In Texas Quadruple In Numbers Since Last Year

""Pertussis is a highly contagious illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis," the DSHS shared. The department added, "One to two weeks after symptoms start, people may develop coughing fits (paroxysms). The cough generally gets worse and becomes more frequent as the illness continues and can cause people to vomit or make a 'whoop' sound as they breathe in between coughs. Coughing fits may continue for weeks or even months.""

"Whooping cough can be deadly, especially in infants and young children. The DSHS is urging parents to vaccinate their children amid the growing number of whooping cough cases. The agency said, "The best way to protect against pertussis is immunization. Parents should ensure children are up-to-date on pertussis immunizations, and pregnant women and others who will be around newborns should get a booster dose to protect babies from what can be a deadly infection.""

"Texas has issued a health alert this month amid a "significant increase" in whooping cough cases, officials said. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed more than 3,500 cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, had been reported in October of this year, which is "roughly four times the number reported for the same period last year," per a recent news release, citing provisional data. Whooping cough is easily preventable through a vaccine."

A health alert was issued in Texas after more than 3,500 whooping cough (pertussis) cases were reported in October, about four times the count from the same period last year. Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial illness caused by Bordetella pertussis. Early symptoms resemble a common cold; one to two weeks after onset, people may develop severe coughing fits that can cause vomiting or a characteristic "whoop" on inhalation and may last weeks or months. Whooping cough can be deadly, especially in infants. Public health officials urge ensuring children are up-to-date on pertussis immunizations and recommend booster doses for pregnant women and others who will be around newborns. Clinicians should report suspected cases promptly.

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