Overview

• MSDH said the infant was younger than two months and not yet eligible for a pertussis vaccination.
• Health officials report 115 pertussis cases in 2025 to date, up from 49 during all of 2024.
• Including this case, Mississippi has recorded three pediatric pertussis deaths since 2008.
• Recommended protection includes DTaP for infants and Tdap for older children and adults, with a dose during each pregnancy at 27–36 weeks.
• Vaccines are available through the Vaccines for Children program and county health departments, and MSDH also advises antibiotics after exposure, staying home when sick, covering coughs, and frequent handwashing.