Health Alert: Whooping Cough Cases Rise in Texas

Date: 12/03/25

The Texas Department of State Health Services reports a rise in pertussis cases, also called whooping cough. This highly contagious infection is most dangerous for infants.

Some symptoms of whooping cough include:

• Common cold symptoms.
• Making a “whoop” sound when gasping for air after a coughing fit.
• Trouble breathing, which is usually present in younger children who may not experience coughing.

Seek care immediately if:

• You suspect exposure or symptoms.
• Breathing is difficult, pauses occur, or lips or skin turn blue. If any of these occur, call 911.

Treatment:

• Antibiotics: when given early (within 3 weeks) they can reduce severity and spread.
• Home care: get plenty of rest, fluids and use a humidifier.

Prevention:

• Avoid:
  • Being around smoke or other irritants in the air.
• Practice:
  • Ensuring your caregiver and emergency contacts are up to date.
  • Good hygiene. Wash your hands, cover your mouth when coughing and stay home when you are sick.
• Vaccinations:
  • DTaP: 5 doses for children (given at ages 2, 4, 6, 15–18 months and 4–6 years old).
  • Tdap: Boosters are available for preteens, adults and pregnant women. The vaccine is given at weeks 27–36 pregnant.

For additional information, visit the CDC Whooping Cough webpage.