Mississippi Health Alert: 80 Confirmed Cases of Pertussis Raise Concerns—What You Need to Know

The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has issued a health alert about a rise in pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough. As of July 10, 2025, there have been 80 reported cases this year, a notable increase from 49 cases in 2024.

Most of this year’s cases—76%—have affected children under 18. Out of 73 age-eligible cases for vaccination, 28 were not vaccinated, highlighting a crucial gap in preventive care.

Interestingly, 40% of these cases are concentrated in northeast Mississippi, showing that regional spikes can occur. On a national level, the U.S. CDC has noted a significant uptick in pertussis cases, with 2024 reporting over six times the cases compared to 2023. This is alarming, especially since there’s no clear seasonal pattern for the disease; however, past data suggests summer and fall may see even more cases.

Pertussis spreads easily through respiratory droplets. Infected individuals can be contagious from the start of symptoms until three weeks after the onset of coughing fits or until they have completed five days of antibiotics.

Vaccination is a critical measure to prevent this disease. The DTaP vaccine is recommended for younger children, while Tdap is suitable for older children and adults, including pregnant women. Current statistics emphasize the importance of these vaccines, especially in light of rising case numbers.

The CDC also recommends early treatment with antibiotics within three weeks of the cough beginning, especially for children aged 1 year and older. Infants younger than one year and pregnant women should receive treatment within six weeks of initial symptoms.

For those in Mississippi, MSDH offers vaccinations to children and uninsured adults through county health departments. It’s crucial to stay informed and proactive about immunizations, especially considering the current trends.

For more information on vaccination and prevention, you can visit the U.S. CDC website.

Source link