Resurgence of Pertussis: A Vaccine-Preventable Infection Reemerges with Force

Resurgence of Pertussis: A Vaccine-Preventable Infection Reemerges with Force

Whooping Cough Resurgence in the United States: A Concerning Trend

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is making a comeback in the United States, and the reasons behind this resurgence are alarming. The primary culprits are declining vaccination rates and decreased vaccine confidence following the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to widespread immunity gaps, particularly among young children.

This trend has resulted in a sharp rise in cases, with Michigan witnessing a staggering 1,700% increase from 110 cases in 2023 to over 2,000 cases in 2024, and continuing to rise in 2025 (855 cases reported by mid-year) [1]. Nationally, more than 7,100 cases were reported in 2025, nearly doubling from the previous year [3].

The disruptions caused by the pandemic have led to millions of children missing routine vaccinations, creating immunity gaps. DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) vaccination rates have declined, leaving infants under six months, who are especially vulnerable, exposed [3].

In addition, there has been an increase in childhood vaccine exemptions. The CDC has noted a rise in vaccine exemptions and delays, leading to increased outbreaks and higher proportions of cases in unvaccinated or unknown vaccination status individuals [2].

The post-pandemic "vaccine crisis" has contributed to hesitancy and the spread of misinformation, eroding public trust in immunizations. Public health campaigns are actively working to counteract this trend [1][3].

This resurgence poses a significant threat to public health, increasing hospitalizations and fatalities among children, straining healthcare systems, and reversing decades of progress in vaccine-preventable diseases. The focus is on restoring high vaccination rates, enhancing surveillance, and rebuilding vaccine confidence to curb this trend [3].

California, Texas, and Michigan have experienced localized pertussis outbreaks in schools and daycare centers. The solution to rising pertussis cases remains clear: vaccination, education, and collective responsibility.

References:

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Measles: Vaccine Coverage. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Pertussis: Vaccine Coverage. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/vaccines.html

[3] National Public Radio. (2022). Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Cases Rising Across The U.S. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/2022/07/18/1115405429/pertussis-whooping-cough-cases-rising-across-the-u-s

1. The resurgence of whooping cough, a concerning trend, is linked to declining vaccination rates and reduced vaccine confidence, particularly in young children.
2. Amidst this trend, Michigan saw a staggering 1,700% increase in whooping cough cases from 110 in 2023 to over 2,000 in 2024, with numbers continuing to rise in 2025.
3. Nationally, the number of reported cases surpassed 7,100 in 2025, almost doubling from the previous year.
4. The pandemic-induced disruptions have led to millions of children missing routine vaccinations, resulting in immunity gaps.
5. Low DTaP vaccination rates have left infants under six months, who are highly vulnerable, exposed to whooping cough.
6. There has been an increase in childhood vaccine exemptions, leading to increased outbreaks and higher proportions of cases among unvaccinated or vaccine status unknown individuals.
7. The CDC has noticed a rise in vaccine exemptions and delays, contributing to the spread of whooping cough.
8. Post-pandemic hesitancy and the circulation of misinformation have eroded public trust in immunizations.
9. Public health campaigns are actively working to combat this trend and restore public trust in vaccines.
10. This resurgence poses a serious threat to public health, leading to increased hospitalizations and fatalities among children.
11. The rise in cases is straining healthcare systems and undoing decades of progress in controlling vaccine-preventable diseases.
12. California, Texas, and Michigan have experienced localized whooping cough outbreaks in schools and daycare centers.
13. In light of these rising cases, vaccination, education, and collective responsibility are essential to curb the trend.
14. Science plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing this resurgence, requiring continued research and collaboration.
15. Workplace wellness programs can help educate employees about the importance of vaccinations and promote healthier communities.
16. Medical conditions like chronic diseases and chronic kidney disease, COPD, type-2 diabetes, and cancers also require attention and management in the workplace to maintain employee health and wellness.
17. Respiratory conditions, digestive health, and eye health are among other critical areas of concern in the health and wellness sector.
18. Hearing loss and impairment is a common problem that affects millions, requiring regular check-ups and treatments.
19. Fitness and exercise, mental health, and skin care are integral parts of a holistic approach to health and wellness.
20. Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders pose significant challenges for the healthcare industry and require continued investment in therapies and treatments.
21. Climate change and the transition to renewable energy impact numerous industries, including manufacturing, creating new challenges and opportunities.
22. Mental health awareness and support are essential for maintaining a productive and healthy workforce in the manufacturing sector.
23. Skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, require careful management and attention in the workplace to ensure the well-being of employees.
24. Financial stability and access to healthcare are crucial for managing chronic diseases and ensuring overall health and wellness.
25. Multiple sclerosis, migraines, and cardiovascular health are among the many complex medical conditions that require ongoing treatment and management.
26. In the face of rising healthcare costs and the increasing burden of diseases like breast cancer, collaboration between government, industry, and finance sectors becomes increasingly important, with fintech playing a key role in addressing these challenges.

Read also: