LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) - A significant rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases has been reported nationwide, and Louisiana is not exempt from the trend.
According to the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), whooping cough cases have surged to pre-pandemic levels, with notable increases in unvaccinated populations.
This highly contagious respiratory disease, known for severe coughing fits that produce the characteristic "whooping" sound, poses serious risks, particularly for infants and young children. With the ongoing surge, health officials are urging Louisiana residents to stay informed and take preventive measures to protect themselves and their families.
Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Symptoms often start like the common cold but can escalate into prolonged coughing fits, vomiting, and exhaustion.
For infants, the risks are especially high, with complications including pneumonia, apnea, and, in severe cases, death.
The current spike is linked to reduced vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic and a drop in natural immunity due to masking and social distancing measures. The CDC reports that national cases of whooping cough have more than quadrupled from 2023 to 2024, and Louisiana has seen a worrying uptick.
Recent data shows Louisiana recorded 129 cases of whooping cough in 2024, compared to just 12 the previous year -- a more than tenfold increase. Public health experts attribute this rise to vaccine hesitancy and a decline in booster uptake among teens and adults.
Babies under one year old, who are at the greatest risk of severe complications, account for a significant portion of hospitalizations.
The most effective way to prevent whooping cough is through vaccination. Louisiana offers two vaccines for protection:
Early symptoms mimic a cold -- runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever. If you or a loved one experience prolonged coughing fits or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
To reduce the spread, wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid close contact with others if you are sick.
With Louisiana's community-focused culture, from Mardi Gras parades to crawfish boils, the spread of whooping cough poses unique challenges. Public health officials emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, particularly infants, as the state continues to see an increase in cases.
By staying vigilant, getting vaccinated, and practicing good hygiene, Louisiana residents can help curb the spread of this dangerous disease and safeguard their communities.