Whooping Cough Vaccination Gaps Cause Outbreaks in the Americas

According to the latest epidemiological update from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), countries in the Americas must address vaccination gaps as there has been a resurgence of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, which has been steadily increasing since 2023.

As of December 9, 2025, the PAHO reports that there has been a significant rise in cases since then, with 11,202 cases reported in 2023 and escalating to 66,184 cases in 2024.

In the United States, so far in 2025, 25,057 confirmed and probable cases of pertussis have been reported, including 13 deaths.

The states with the highest numbers of confirmed and probable pertussis cases in 2025 are Washington (2,003), California (1,585), and Florida (1,422).

"Whooping cough is a vaccine-preventable disease, but its resurgence highlights gaps in immunization and epidemiological surveillance," said Dr. Daniel Salas, Executive Manager of PAHO's Special Program on Integrated Immunization, in a press release.

"It is urgent that countries ensure high and consistent vaccination coverage, especially among children under five, to protect the most vulnerable and prevent outbreaks," he added.

The PAHO recommends that countries ensure vaccination coverage is above 95% in children and provide booster doses for pregnant women and healthcare workers, prioritizing maternity staff and caregivers of infants.

"Timely and complete vaccination, together with robust surveillance, is the most effective strategy to prevent whooping cough, a disease that can cause severe illness, complications, or even death, especially in unvaccinated children under one year," emphasized Dr. Salas.

Before departing for at-risk areas in December 2025, the PAHO and the U.S. CDC suggest international travelers speak with a travel vaccine consultant about immunization options.