Trendpills
Texas is currently grappling with a significant public health challenge as cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, have surged to their highest levels in 11 years. According to provisional data from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the state has recorded more than 3,500 cases through October 2025, a figure that is approximately four times higher than what was reported during the same period in the previous year.
In response to the escalating numbers, the DSHS issued a health alert in early November, marking the second consecutive year that officials have warned of a sharp increase in pertussis infections. Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness characterized by severe coughing fits that can lead to a distinctive “whooping” sound when the person inhales. While it can affect individuals of any age, it poses a significant threat to infants, who are most vulnerable to severe complications, including pneumonia, seizures, and even death.
The concerning trend is not isolated to a single region, with cases rising across the state. This year's outbreak follows a pattern of increasing infections observed in 2024, mirroring a broader national uptick in the disease. Health experts point to waning immunity and potential gaps in vaccination coverage as contributing factors. The increase in Texas infections is troubling because of the serious health risks associated with whooping cough, particularly for the youngest and most fragile members of the community.
Public health officials are strongly recommending vaccination as the most effective method of prevention. The recommended vaccination schedule includes the DTaP vaccine for children and a booster shot, known as Tdap, for preteens, adolescents, and adults, especially pregnant women and those in close contact with infants. As Texas reports its worst outbreak in years, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of staying up-to-date on immunizations to protect both individuals and the wider community from this preventable disease.
