In 2024, more than 32,000 cases of whooping cough (pertussis) have been reported in the United States, marking the highest number in ten years.
The Growing Concern
The increase in cases may be partly due to a return to pre-pandemic patterns. However, the number of cases reported this year is significantly higher than in 2019.
The Numbers
As of December 14, the number of whooping cough cases in the U.S. had more than doubled compared to the same day in 2023, with 5,198 cases reported that year. In 2022, the figure had dropped to 2,896. By mid-December 2024, the number of cases had surged to at least 15,661, a substantial rise from previous years.
Vulnerable Populations
The most vulnerable group is babies under one year old, whose immune systems are still developing. These infants are at the highest risk of severe illness and death from whooping cough. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the highest recorded rates of pertussis are seen in this age group.
Expected Increase in Cases
Following a period of low cases during the pandemic, the CDC predicts a rise in whooping cough cases across both vaccinated and unvaccinated populations as more normal patterns return. While immunisation remains the most effective defence, the protection from vaccination tends to wear off over time.
Declining Immunity and Vaccine Hesitancy
Experts have raised concerns about declining immunity, particularly in individuals who have previously been vaccinated. In addition, lower vaccination rates in children have also contributed to the resurgence of whooping cough outbreaks. Many parents have been reluctant to vaccinate their children, citing non-medical religious exemptions.
As vaccination efforts continue, addressing both declining immunity and vaccine hesitancy will be crucial in controlling future outbreaks.
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