Atlanta, Georgia – Whooping cough cases are on the rise in the United States, with over 5,000 reported cases in the first five months of this year. This surge is believed to be a repercussion of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to disruptions in vaccine schedules for many children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that rates of whooping cough declined during the early months of the pandemic as people adhered to safety measures like masking and social distancing. However, the fear of exposure to COVID-19 may have resulted in missed vaccination appointments for children, leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Experts warn that whooping cough can have severe consequences, particularly for infants, as it can lead to inflammation of the airways and pose a greater risk due to their smaller airways. The disease often starts like a common cold but can progress to cause intense coughing fits that can be life-threatening.
Despite the availability of vaccines, whooping cough cases have been climbing in various states including Kentucky, Oregon, and western Pennsylvania. While vaccination rates remained steady in recent years, there was a noticeable decline during the initial stages of the pandemic, leading to a resurgence of the disease.
In efforts to combat the spread of whooping cough, health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, particularly during pregnancy. Vaccinating expectant mothers provides crucial protection to newborns in the first months of life, as they are not eligible for vaccination until two months of age.
The resurgence of whooping cough serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination in preventing infectious diseases. Health experts stress the role of immunization in saving lives and minimizing the risk of severe illness from preventable diseases like pertussis. Vigilance in maintaining vaccination rates is key to curbing the spread of infectious diseases and safeguarding public health.