Whooping cough is making an alarming comeback across Louisiana, with state health officials warning that 2025 may mark the highest number of cases reported in more than three decades.
According to the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), 164 cases of whooping cough—also known as pertussis—have been identified in just the first four months of this year. That already exceeds the total number of cases reported statewide in 2024, which stood at 153.
The uptick mirrors national trends, but Louisiana’s figures are especially troubling. Since September 2024, 40 residents have been hospitalized, the majority of them babies under 1 year old. Two infants have tragically died—the first pertussis-related deaths in the state since 2018.
Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by Bordetella pertussis. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close personal contact. While anyone can contract the disease, infants are especially vulnerable and face the greatest risk of severe complications or death. Many babies catch the illness from adults or caregivers who may not even realize they’re infected.
Symptoms include severe coughing fits followed by a deep breath that produces the telltale “whooping” sound. Infected individuals can transmit the bacteria from the onset of symptoms and remain contagious for up to three weeks.
LDH Urges Preventive Measures
With cases rising sharply, LDH is urging the public to take preventive steps seriously:
- Check your vaccination status: Make sure you and your children are up to date on the DTaP or Tdap vaccines. Protection from the vaccine wanes over time, so booster doses are necessary.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals: Do not share food, drinks, or personal items like toothbrushes or cigarettes.
- Isolate if symptomatic: If you suspect you or your child may have whooping cough, contact your healthcare provider and isolate to prevent further spread.
- Seek preventive treatment if exposed: If you’ve been in close contact with someone diagnosed with pertussis, your provider may recommend medication to prevent illness.
Protecting the Youngest
Infants under two months old cannot receive a pertussis vaccine, making maternal and community immunity critical. LDH recommends that pregnant individuals receive the Tdap vaccine during the third trimester of each pregnancy, as this can pass antibodies to the baby before birth. Close family members and caregivers should also review their vaccination status and consider a booster if needed.
What You Need to Know About the Vaccines
There are two vaccines that protect against whooping cough:
- DTaP: For children under 7 years old, administered in five doses at 2, 4, 6, 15-18 months, and again between 4-6 years of age.
- Tdap: For older children, teens, and adults. A booster is recommended at ages 11-12, again every 10 years for adults, and during each pregnancy.
Both vaccines also protect against tetanus and diphtheria.
Clinicians Advised to Stay Vigilant
LDH has issued a health advisory to medical providers statewide, urging them to stay alert for symptoms and to follow updated clinical recommendations. You can view the advisory here.
As the state braces for a potentially record-setting year, health officials are calling on residents to take personal and community action to protect those most at risk.
