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Texas Whooping Cough Cases Quadruple, Hitting Highest Level in More Than a Decade

State health officials link the surge to declining childhood vaccination coverage.

Data from the Texas Department of State Health Services indicates that "approximately 85 percent of pertussis cases in Texas this year have occurred among children."
Vaccines during a vaccine drive at the City of Lubbock Health Department in Lubbock on Feb. 27, 2025.
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While cases are rising, vaccination rates among Texas children have continued to fall, state data says.

Overview

  • The Texas health department’s Nov. 3 alert reported more than 3,500 pertussis cases through October, roughly four times the same period last year.
  • About 85% of reported infections this year have been in children, with infants facing the greatest risk of severe complications.
  • Texas’ student immunization report shows falling childhood vaccination rates, while CDC data indicate national kindergarten coverage has dipped to about 92.1% from roughly 95% pre‑pandemic.
  • El Paso has recorded more than 20 cases so far this year, up from three reported in September 2024, prompting local calls for vaccination, masking, handwashing, and staying home when sick.
  • CDC figures available through the end of September show at least 20,939 U.S. cases this year, with counts elevated in recent years and some national reporting delayed during the government shutdown.