Texas health officials are sounding the alarm over a spike in common childhood illnesses.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH) revealed this week that the number of pertussis cases in the state is nearly four times higher than this time last year.
According to preliminary data, there will be more than 3,500 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in Texas by October 2025.
Experts warn of ‘silent epidemic’ that puts men’s health at serious risk
According to DHSH, this is the second year in a row that the state has reported a significant increase in cases and the second year in a row that a health alert has been issued.
Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease respiratory infections It is caused by Bordetella pertussis, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
At first, it starts like a common cold with a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough, but symptoms progress over time. severe cough attack It can end with a high-pitched “whoosh” sound as the person gasps for air.
Five deaths reported in bacterial outbreak in major city
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the disease typically goes through three stages: cold-like symptoms, a severe cough, and gradual recovery.
Anyone can get whooping cough, but complications are most severe in: Babies under 12 months. Infants are more likely to be hospitalized and face even greater risks if they are immunocompromised or unvaccinated.
Symptoms in infants may not include the typical “whooshing” sound, and instead may include difficulty breathing or stopping breathing, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Teens and adults can also become infected because the protection provided by vaccines often wears off. Symptoms are usually mild.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
The CDC recommends pertussis vaccination for all ages, and Texas health leaders emphasize the need for everyone to stay up-to-date on information to prevent weakened immunity.
image
pregnant woman Health officials say that while it is recommended that newborns receive Tdap vaccination during pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks, to protect them, adults who have close contact with infants should also be vaccinated at least two weeks before exposure.
Test yourself with our latest lifestyle quiz
Clinicians are encouraged to test anyone showing symptoms consistent with whooping cough, but can also initiate treatment based on “strong clinical suspicion” or exposure. PCR tests are preferred because they are rapid and widely available.
For more health stories, click here
early treatment Regardless of vaccination history, officials say this is key to preventing severe illness and stopping the spread.
