Have you or someone close to you been battling a lingering cough that just won’t go away? If you’re in Texas, health officials say now is the time to pay close attention. The state is experiencing a sharp and troubling rise in whooping cough cases, and families—especially those with newborns and young children—are being urged to stay vigilant.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recently issued a statewide health alert after new data revealed that the number of pertussis (whooping cough) infections has quadrupled compared to this time last year. With more than 3,500 reported cases so far, this is the second consecutive year of dramatic increases, signaling a growing public health threat that requires swift community action.

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Key Takeaways

• Massive Surge in Cases

Texas is facing nearly four times the number of whooping cough infections seen at the same time last year—a dramatic escalation that health experts are closely monitoring.

• A Highly Contagious Infection

Whooping cough is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria and spreads extremely easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact.

• Infants Are the Most Vulnerable

Babies under 12 months face the highest risk of severe complications, including hospitalization, pneumonia, and even death.

• Vaccination Remains the Best Defense

Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccines is essential for protecting not only yourself, but also the most vulnerable members of your community.

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What Exactly Is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is far more serious than an ordinary cough or seasonal illness. It begins subtly—with symptoms that resemble a typical cold:

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Sneezing

• Mild cough

• Low-grade fever

But after one to two weeks, the infection often progresses into its hallmark stage: repeated, violent coughing fits that can make it hard to breathe. Between these fits, people may gasp desperately for air, producing the well-known “whooping” sound that gives the disease its name.

The illness develops in three stages:

1. Catarrhal Stage – mild, cold-like symptoms

2. Paroxysmal Stage – intense coughing spells that can cause vomiting or exhaustion

3. Convalescent Stage – gradual recovery that can stretch on for weeks or months

Even after the worst symptoms fade, coughing can return with future colds or infections because the airways remain extremely sensitive.

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Who Is Most at Risk?

Although anyone can contract pertussis, certain groups face significantly higher dangers:

Infants and Babies Under 12 Months

Because their immune systems are not fully developed and they are often too young to be fully vaccinated, infants are at the greatest risk. Instead of a classic "whoop," a baby may:

• Struggle to breathe

• Turn blue

• Experience apnea (brief pauses in breathing)

• Appear extremely fatigued or unresponsive

For them, whooping cough can escalate rapidly into a medical emergency.

Teens and Adults

Immunity from childhood vaccinations fades over time, leaving older children and adults vulnerable. While symptoms tend to be milder, many don’t realize they’re infected—yet they can still unknowingly spread the bacteria to infants, pregnant women, and others at higher risk.

Pregnant Women

Expectant mothers are strongly encouraged to receive the Tdap vaccine because it provides lifesaving antibodies to the baby before birth.

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How Can You Protect Your Family?

1. Vaccination Is Key

The CDC and Texas DSHS both emphasize that vaccination is the most powerful way to stop pertussis from spreading.

• Children receive the DTaP vaccine series.

• Teens and adults receive Tdap booster doses.

• Pregnant women should get Tdap during every pregnancy, ideally between 27–36 weeks, to protect newborns during their first months of life.

2. Be Vaccinated Before Visiting Newborns

Anyone planning to be around an infant should make sure they are vaccinated at least two weeks prior. This includes parents, grandparents, babysitters, and close family friends.

3. Watch for Symptoms and Seek Testing Early

If you or a family member develops a long-lasting cough, fever, or severe coughing fits, get evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis not only protects you but also helps prevent community spread.

4. Practice Good Hygiene

Simple steps like washing hands, covering your cough, avoiding close contact when sick, and staying home when symptomatic can make a major difference—especially during outbreaks.

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Conclusion

The surge in whooping cough cases across Texas is a serious and urgent public health concern. This isn’t a distant problem—it’s a rapidly unfolding situation that affects entire communities. Understanding the symptoms, recognizing how easily the infection spreads, and staying current with vaccinations are the most effective tools we have to protect ourselves and the most vulnerable among us.

By taking proactive steps today, you can help slow the outbreak, reduce the risk of severe complications in infants and young children, and contribute to keeping your community safe and healthy.