Kentucky has reported its third infant death from whooping cough this year, marking the state’s latest victim in the worst outbreak since 2012. The infant was unvaccinated. So far in 2025, Kentucky has recorded at least 566 cases of the disease.
Nationally, more than 25,000 whooping cough cases have been reported this year, continuing a surge seen over the past two years after pandemic-related declines. Pennsylvania has experienced the highest activity with 3,500 cases and two infant deaths.
Health experts attribute the rise in cases to declining vaccination rates. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that whooping cough, or pertussis, is highly contagious and spreads easily through airborne bacteria. Infants under 1 year old are particularly vulnerable to severe complications.
Symptoms begin 5–10 days after exposure, often resembling a common cold, with a runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever. In infants, apnea may occur instead of coughing. One to two weeks later, severe coughing fits develop, lasting one to 10 weeks. These fits can cause a “whoop” sound when inhaling, vomiting, extreme fatigue, breathing difficulties, broken ribs, and sleep disruption.
Early antibiotic treatment is critical for managing whooping cough. Vaccination remains the most effective prevention measure, and the CDC recommends that everyone stay up to date on their pertussis vaccines to protect themselves and vulnerable infants.
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