11/30/2025
KENTUCKY HEALTH ALERT: Rise in Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Kentucky health officials are reporting a significant increase in pertussis (whooping cough) across the state. So far in 2025, 566 cases have been reported — the highest number since 2012. Sadly, three infant deaths have occurred in the past year, and none of the infants or their mothers had received recommended pertussis vaccines.
Pertussis is especially dangerous for young infants, but cases are also rising among school-aged children. Even vaccinated individuals can get pertussis as immunity fades over time — but the vaccine greatly reduces severity and risk of hospitalization.
🩺 What Providers & Families Should Know:
• Stay alert for persistent or severe coughs, especially in children and adults.
• Infants may show apnea (pauses in breathing) instead of cough.
• Testing is done by nasopharyngeal swab or PCR.
• Report suspected or confirmed cases within 1 business day to your local health department.
💉 Prevention:
• Vaccination is the best protection.
— Pregnant women: Tdap during 27–36 weeks.
— Infants: Begin DTaP at 2 months.
— Children & adults: Ensure timely boosters.
👶 Protect Those Most at Risk:
Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for:
1️⃣ All household contacts of a confirmed case (within 21 days).
2️⃣ Infants under 1, pregnant women, and anyone in close contact with high-risk individuals.
❗If Symptoms Develop:
Isolate, contact your provider, and ask about testing. Early treatment can reduce severity and help prevent spread.
Let’s work together to protect Kentucky’s most vulnerable. Stay informed. Stay vaccinated.
