Whooping cough kills two babies in Kentucky, state health department confirms
Two infants in Kentucky have died of whooping cough in the last six months, the Kentucky Department for Public Health confirmed Friday.
The deaths from pertussis are the first in the state since 2018.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that settles in the respiratory system. A deep and persistent cough that resembles a “whooping” sound is often a signature symptom, earning the illness the name whooping cough.
Neither of the babies or their mothers were vaccinated against whooping cough, state officials said.
Pertussis immunizations are recommended during pregnancy or infancy, starting at two months old.
The health department did not immediately provide details on exactly how old the infants were, or where in Kentucky the deaths occurred.
“Anyone can get whooping cough, but infants are at greatest risk for life-threatening illness,” said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said in a statement. “Fortunately, when vaccinations are administered to pregnant women, it provides protection to both the mother and the baby.”
State health officials in July 2024 warned that whooping cough cases were spiking statewide to levels not seen in at least a decade. Last year, 543 cases were reported — the most since 2012. At least 247 cases of whooping cough have been reported so far this year. Health officials expect the prevalence of cases to continue through the summer and fall.
Since it’s an airborne illness, whooping cough is especially contagious. Though they typically vary depending on one’s age and vaccination status, symptoms usually begin with congestion, runny nose and mild coughing.
After a few weeks, symptoms can progress to labored breathing and a more severe “whooping” cough, fever and sometimes vomiting.
The vaccination against the illness is combined with the tetanus and diptheria vaccines and is required for school-aged kids in Kentucky.
Only 86% of Kindergartners and 85% of seventh graders are up to date on their required pertussis vaccines, according to a state immunization survey from the 2024-2025 school year.
This story may be updated.
