October 20, 2025
Oregon has reported 1,303 cases of whooping cough (pertussis) in 2025, the highest number since 1950. About 60% of cases are among school-aged children (5–18 years old). Because whooping cough spreads easily, it is important to share this information with families and those working with children.
What is Whooping Cough?
- Whooping cough, is a respiratory disease caused by bacteria.
- It can be very dangerous for babies.
- Vaccination is the best way to stop whooping cough.
- Talk to your doctor about this important vaccine to protect infants and unborn children.
Who Gets Whooping Cough?
- Anyone can get whooping cough.
- Babies, young children, and adults 60+ are at the highest risk.
- Newborns are especially vulnerable because they are too young to be fully vaccinated.
What Are the Symptoms?
- During the first week, symptoms resemble a cold or flu.
- After 1 or 2 weeks, the cough gets worse and usually starts to occur in strong fits of coughing.
- The cough can last six weeks or longer.
- In babies and children, coughing fits may be followed by a “whoop” sound as they try to catch their breath.
- Whooping cough can make it hard for babies to eat, drink, or breathe.
- Other symptoms may include; difficulty catching breath, vomiting after coughing, and color changes in the face from lack of air.
How is pertussis spread?
- Bacteria live in the nose, mouth, and throat, and are sprayed into the air when an infected person sneezes, coughs or talks.
- Touching a tissue or sharing a cup can also spread the disease.
- Older adolescents, adults and parents who may have a mild illness can spread the disease to infants and young children in the household.
How do you prevent pertussis?
- Vaccination is the best way to prevent severe illness related whooping cough.
- DTaP for Children: 5 doses starting at 2 months of age through kindergarten.
- Tdap for adolescents and adults: Immunity can wear off, so a booster is recommended at age 11 and then every 10 years. This protects both the individual and vulnerable infants.
- Pregnant persons should ask their healthcare provider about a Tdap booster during the third trimester of each pregnancy.
- Cover your cough or wear a mask
- Wash your hands often.
- Keep babies away from anyone who is coughing.
Treatment
- Whooping cough can be treated with antibiotics, typically a 5-day course of azithromycin.
- Antibiotics may not prevent the worst symptoms if not given early enough.
Where can I get more information?
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Whooping Cough Infographic_English.PDF
Whooping Cough Infographic_Spanish.PDF