Whooping cough and measles updates you need to know for your loved one
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Something unsettling is happening in communities across the country.
Health officials are tracking rising outbreaks, raising urgent questions about how protected we really are.
If you have kids, grandkids, or anyone vulnerable in your life, here’s what you need to know right now.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, has skyrocketed—cases are up a staggering 1,500% since 2021.
The Centers for Disease Control reports 35,435 infections and 10 deaths in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.
Measles is also on the rise. As of April 10, over 700 confirmed cases have been reported in 24 states.
Experts say we’re losing ground in the fight against these once-contained diseases—and the common thread is clear.
Read more: Measles on the rise: 4 deadly myths you need to DEBUNK immediately
Health officials link the surge to declining vaccine coverage. In some states, drops in MMR and DTaP vaccine uptake have weakened herd immunity, giving these infections room to spread.
Hesitancy around childhood vaccinations is a major concern, especially when the diseases involved are known to cause serious illness—or worse.
Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through coughing or sneezing.
It starts off with cold-like symptoms but quickly escalates to violent coughing fits, which may end in a gasping “whoop” sound.
It’s especially dangerous for babies under 1 year old, who often need hospitalization. Complications can include pneumonia, rib fractures from severe coughing, and even death.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. Symptoms include Low-grade fever, cough, runny nose, and Cyanosis.
The disease can cause severe outcomes, including difficulty inhaling, Vomiting, or paroxysms. One in five unvaccinated children with measles will be hospitalized.
The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis and is given in five doses from infancy through age 6.
Adolescents and adults should get a Tdap booster, and pregnant women are advised to get one with each pregnancy.
More about vaccines: Free measles vaccinations just got harder to find—here’s what’s behind the closures
Adults who haven’t been vaccinated or are unsure should talk to a doctor about getting immunized.
Along with vaccination, basic hygiene can help stop the spread.
Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, and stay home when sick.
For vulnerable groups, like infants or those with weakened immune systems, these measures are especially important.
Read next: Three shocking whooping cough symptoms your family must watch out for, experts warn!
Have these outbreaks affected your community? Are you up to date on vaccinations—or helping a loved one stay protected? Share your story or questions in the comments below. Let’s stay informed, vigilant, and connected as a community that values health, prevention, and care for each other.
Health officials are tracking rising outbreaks, raising urgent questions about how protected we really are.
If you have kids, grandkids, or anyone vulnerable in your life, here’s what you need to know right now.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, has skyrocketed—cases are up a staggering 1,500% since 2021.
The Centers for Disease Control reports 35,435 infections and 10 deaths in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.
Measles is also on the rise. As of April 10, over 700 confirmed cases have been reported in 24 states.
Experts say we’re losing ground in the fight against these once-contained diseases—and the common thread is clear.
Read more: Measles on the rise: 4 deadly myths you need to DEBUNK immediately
Health officials link the surge to declining vaccine coverage. In some states, drops in MMR and DTaP vaccine uptake have weakened herd immunity, giving these infections room to spread.
Hesitancy around childhood vaccinations is a major concern, especially when the diseases involved are known to cause serious illness—or worse.
Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through coughing or sneezing.
It starts off with cold-like symptoms but quickly escalates to violent coughing fits, which may end in a gasping “whoop” sound.
It’s especially dangerous for babies under 1 year old, who often need hospitalization. Complications can include pneumonia, rib fractures from severe coughing, and even death.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. Symptoms include Low-grade fever, cough, runny nose, and Cyanosis.
The disease can cause severe outcomes, including difficulty inhaling, Vomiting, or paroxysms. One in five unvaccinated children with measles will be hospitalized.
The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis and is given in five doses from infancy through age 6.
Adolescents and adults should get a Tdap booster, and pregnant women are advised to get one with each pregnancy.
More about vaccines: Free measles vaccinations just got harder to find—here’s what’s behind the closures
Adults who haven’t been vaccinated or are unsure should talk to a doctor about getting immunized.
Along with vaccination, basic hygiene can help stop the spread.
Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, and stay home when sick.
For vulnerable groups, like infants or those with weakened immune systems, these measures are especially important.
Read next: Three shocking whooping cough symptoms your family must watch out for, experts warn!
Have these outbreaks affected your community? Are you up to date on vaccinations—or helping a loved one stay protected? Share your story or questions in the comments below. Let’s stay informed, vigilant, and connected as a community that values health, prevention, and care for each other.
