Whooping Cough Cases Skyrocket in Texas

November 12, 2025 – Texas health officials issued a formal alert Monday after confirming that the number of whooping cough (pertussis) cases this year has quadrupled compared to the same period last year. Through October, the state has reported more than 3,500 cases, a dramatic surge from the approximately 1,900 cases recorded in the prior year.

The best way to prevent whooping cough is through vaccination.

This spike represents the highest level of pertussis seen in Texas in over a decade, with around 85 percent of infections occurring in children. Infants under the age of one face the greatest risk of severe complications: a third of those infected may require hospitalization.

Experts attribute the uptick to multiple factors. Vaccination rates among school-age children have declined, and immunity from earlier shots fades over time. Medical providers also suggest that increased awareness and testing may help explain part of the rise. “Immunity wanes, and families are behind on booster shots,” said a pediatric infectious disease specialist in San Antonio.

The bacterial illness begins with mild cold-like symptoms but can quickly escalate to intense, prolonged coughing fits, vomiting, and difficulty breathing — especially in the very young. With school and holiday gatherings ahead, officials warn the risk of spread may increase.

Health authorities are urging parents, caregivers and pregnant women to ensure that they and their children are up to date on pertussis vaccinations (the Tdap booster) and to watch for persistent coughs. With this recent surge, public health officials say the situation remains urgent and unpredictable.