Whooping Cough Deaths Hit Record High in US—What Makes This Infection So Dangerous?

The United States has witnessed a concerning rise in whooping cough cases, with recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirming at least a dozen fatalities. This marks the highest number of deaths caused by the infection since 2017. Also known as pertussis, whooping cough has been making a strong resurgence after a temporary decline over the winter months, raising alarms among health experts.

Surge in Whooping Cough Cases Across the US

Over the past month, cases of whooping cough have steadily increased. Although infections saw a brief dip during the holiday season, weekly cases have been rising consistently, indicating a potential outbreak.

According to the latest reports, the country recorded 360 new pertussis cases in a single week, reflecting a 27% increase from the previous week. Late last year, weekly infections peaked at 577 before plummeting to under 200 around the New Year's holiday.

Florida Reports the Highest Number of Cases

Among all states, Florida has emerged as the hardest hit, reporting 44 new cases in just one week. Previously, Ohio recorded the highest number of infections, but Florida has now taken the lead, with the majority of cases concentrated in Miami and Tampa. The infection remains a significant concern for young children, with most cases in Florida reported among those under the age of five.

In response to the growing numbers, CDC spokesperson Paul Prince emphasized the importance of vaccination. "People of all ages are at risk for getting pertussis (whooping cough). Everyone who is not up to date with their vaccination should get vaccinated," he stated.

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Why Is Whooping Cough Making a Comeback?

Health officials have warned for months about a possible surge in whooping cough cases. Typically, pertussis cases spike every three to five years, but the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this pattern. Social distancing, mask-wearing, and other preventive measures during the pandemic temporarily curbed the spread of many infections, including pertussis. Now, as daily life returns to normal, whooping cough is re-emerging, with a significant number of people unvaccinated or under-immunised.

What Is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It gets its name from the distinctive "whooping" sound made during severe coughing fits. Often referred to as the "100-day cough," the infection can lead to prolonged coughing spells, severe breathing difficulties, and life-threatening complications in infants.

How Does Whooping Cough Spread?

The bacteria responsible for whooping cough attach themselves to tiny, hair-like structures called cilia that line the respiratory tract. Once there, they release toxins that damage the cilia and cause airway inflammation. This inflammation leads to excess mucus production, triggering intense coughing spells.

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Symptoms of Whooping Cough

Early symptoms of pertussis can easily be mistaken for a common cold. The initial phase lasts about one to two weeks and may include:

• Mild coughing
• Runny nose
• Slight fever
• Short pauses in breathing (especially in infants)

As the infection progresses, symptoms become more severe and may include:

• Repetitive, violent coughing fits lasting up to 10 weeks
• A "whooping" sound when inhaling after a cough
• Vomiting due to severe coughing
• Extreme fatigue

Although symptoms begin to subside after four weeks, some individuals may continue to experience sporadic coughing episodes for several months.

Why Is Whooping Cough So Dangerous?

Pertussis poses a significant threat, particularly to infants, young children, and immunocompromised individuals. Severe complications include pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and, in extreme cases, death. Babies who contract the infection may struggle with apnea—pauses in breathing that can be fatal.

Bottomline

With pertussis cases on the rise and fatalities at a record high, health experts stress the importance of vaccination and early diagnosis. If left untreated, whooping cough can lead to severe complications, making prevention crucial. Staying up to date with vaccinations and seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms can help curb the spread of this potentially fatal infection.