Rising Infections and Deaths
Whooping cough cases have surged to at least 7,599 in the this year, a significant increase from 3,473 cases at the same time last year, with notable outbreaks in states like and .
The disease has led to fatalities, including the deaths of two infants in Louisiana and a child in due to whooping cough, marking a concerning rise in mortality associated with the infection.
Vaccination Rates and Public Health Response
Vaccination rates are declining, with an increase in vaccine exemptions leading to more outbreaks of whooping cough and other preventable diseases. The reports a dip in kindergarten vaccination rates.
Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination and early treatment with antibiotics to prevent the spread, highlighting the disease's severe impact on infants and the rising cases among older children and teens.