Texas Issues Health Alert as Whooping Cough Cases Quadruple

Texas health officials have issued an urgent warning about a significant surge in whooping cough cases across the state. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH), reported cases of pertussis—commonly known as whooping cough—have nearly quadrupled compared to the same period last year.

Provisional data shows Texas has recorded more than 3,500 cases of whooping cough through October 2025. This alarming increase has prompted state health authorities to issue a health alert for the second consecutive year.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The illness typically begins with symptoms resembling a common cold—runny nose, sneezing, and mild cough. However, it progresses to intense coughing fits that can end with a distinctive high-pitched “whoop” sound as the person gasps for air.

According to medical experts, the disease progresses through three distinct stages: initial cold-like symptoms, followed by violent coughing episodes, and finally a gradual recovery period. The Cleveland Clinic notes that a complete recovery can take weeks or even months in some cases.

While whooping cough can affect people of all ages, it poses the greatest risk to infants under 12 months old. Babies are more likely to require hospitalization and face significantly higher risks of serious complications, especially if they are immunocompromised or not fully vaccinated.

“Infants don’t always present with the classic ‘whoop’ sound that gives the disease its name,” said a spokesperson from the Texas DHSH. “Instead, they may struggle to breathe or have episodes where they briefly stop breathing altogether, which can be life-threatening.”

The resurgence of pertussis in Texas reflects a concerning national trend of increasing cases of vaccine-preventable diseases. Public health experts attribute this rise to several factors, including waning immunity in adolescents and adults who were vaccinated years ago, and hesitancy among some parents to fully vaccinate their children.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends pertussis vaccinations for people of all ages. Texas health officials are emphasizing the importance of staying current with vaccination schedules to prevent immunity from fading.

Pregnant women are specifically advised to receive a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) shot during each pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. This timing helps provide passive immunity to newborns during their most vulnerable period before they can be vaccinated themselves.

“The maternal antibodies passed to the baby provide critical protection during those first few months of life,” explained a maternal health specialist. “Additionally, all adults who will have close contact with infants should ensure they’re vaccinated at least two weeks before anticipated exposure.”

Healthcare providers across Texas are being encouraged to test patients who show symptoms consistent with pertussis. PCR tests are the preferred diagnostic method because they deliver quick results and are widely available. However, health officials note that treatment can begin based on “strong clinical suspicion” or known exposure, even before test results are confirmed.

Early intervention with appropriate antibiotics is crucial not only for treating the infected individual but also for preventing further community spread. Treatment is recommended regardless of vaccination history, as even vaccinated individuals can sometimes contract milder forms of the disease.

Public health departments across Texas have begun outreach campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination and early detection. Schools and daycare centers are also being advised to monitor for potential outbreaks and enforce exclusion policies for sick children.

As Texas heads into the winter months, when respiratory illnesses typically surge, health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant about symptoms and seek medical attention promptly if whooping cough is suspected.