Record High Cases of Whooping Cough in the US and California
Surge in Cases Across the Country
This year has seen a significant increase in cases of whooping cough across the United States, with California being no exception. According to the Los Angeles Times, there have been 1,744 reported cases in California from January to September 2024.
Record High Numbers in California
In contrast, there were fewer than 300 cases reported in all of 2023. In Los Angeles County alone, there have been 347 confirmed and probable cases of whooping cough so far this year, a significant increase from the 126 reported in all of 2023 and more than quadruple the 2022 total.
Who is Most at Risk?
Experts agree that certain groups are more susceptible to the disease. These include:
Those Most at Risk
- Young infants
- Asthmatic individuals
- Immunocompromised individuals
Why Does Whooping Cough Spike?
According to experts, whooping cough tends to surge every three to five years. The last such uptick occurred in 2019, just ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Can You Do?
To learn more about whooping cough, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is whooping cough?
A: Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a contagious illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
Q: How is whooping cough spread?
A: Whooping cough is spread through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Q: What are the symptoms of whooping cough?
A: Symptoms of whooping cough typically include a dry, persistent cough, followed by a characteristic "whooping" sound when the person inhales.
Q: How is whooping cough treated?
A: Whooping cough treatment typically involves antibiotics, which can help reduce the duration and severity of the illness. Vaccination is also effective in preventing the disease.
