Whooping Cough Cases Surge to Decade High in the U.S.

The CDC reports a significant rise in whooping cough, with vaccination rates declining and cases concentrated among school-age children.

Over 18,500 cases of whooping cough have been reported in the U.S. this year, marking the highest level since 2014.
The disease primarily affects infants and young children, but recent outbreaks have also been seen in older children and teens.
Vaccination rates among kindergartners have dipped, with exemptions at an all-time high, contributing to the increased spread.
States like Wisconsin and Ohio have seen significant rises in cases, with Ohio experiencing the fastest growth rate.
The CDC emphasizes vaccination as the best protection, especially for pregnant women to protect newborns who are too young to be vaccinated.