Whooping Cough Cases Surge in US and Europe

Whooping cough, or pertussis, has surged in the U.S. with over 10,800 cases reported so far in 2024, marking a threefold increase from the previous year and nearing pre-pandemic levels. Public health officials attribute this resurgence to decreased vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many parents missed routine immunizations for their children. Additionally, there has been a notable rise in COVID-19 infections across several states, with variations in wastewater levels indicating potential spikes in cases. The CDC has noted that while COVID hospitalizations remain low, the emergence of new variants may contribute to a larger surge. Experts warn that the resurgence of whooping cough could further complicate public health efforts, particularly as schools reopen. Authorities are preparing for a comprehensive autumn vaccination campaign to address both COVID-19 and whooping cough.