Texas Reports 772 Pertussis Cases in 2024

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reports an increase in pertussis cases in 2024, with about triple the number of cases reported this year compared with the same period in 2023.

Texas has confirmed 772 pertussis cases in 2024, compared to 264 last year.

This DSHS announcement on November 12, 2024, follows a national trend, which has seen a more than fivefold increase in 2024 cases based on preliminary data posted by the U.S. CDC.

As of week #44, reported on November 2, 2024, CDC data show that more than five times (22,240) as many pertussis cases were reported compared to (4,209) at the same time in 2023.

According to a state-based analysis, Pennsylvania reported about 10% (2,462) of all pertussis cases in 2024.

Pertussis is a highly contagious illness caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis and is vaccine-preventable, says the CDC.

Early symptoms are very similar to the common cold. People may develop paroxysms (coughing fits) one to two weeks after the first symptoms start. The cough generally gets worse and becomes more common as the illness continues. It can cause people to vomit or make a “whoop” sound when breathing in.

DSHS advises clinicians to follow the recommendations below and report any cases to their local health department within one workday.