ARKANSAS, USA — A newly released Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) report shows more than 200 cases of whooping cough have been reported in the Natural State this year, showing a drastic increase from 2023 when 40 cases were reported.
Pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, has early symptoms similar to the common cold in the first one-to-two weeks but will eventually cause persistent coughing fits for up to ten weeks. The disease is spread through coughing and sneezing while in close contact with other people.
ADH said more than 30 counties across Arkansas have reported at least one case. Most of the cases are in school-aged children or teenagers.
According to officials, there could be several reasons why Arkansas is experiencing this surge, including vaccine exemptions.
"One of the major causes or instant reasons that we see whooping cough proliferate is unvaccinated populations," Dr. Lance Faddis, the regional physician executive for primary care in Arkansas, said. "When we have folks that have not completed the vaccination series, that can be an issue."
Young infants, pregnant people, and immuno-deficient adults are especially susceptible to experiencing severe symptoms. Vaccines start for children at a very young age. For adults, Faddis said it's best to get a booster every ten years or so.
"It's recommended that you have another pertussis vaccination during your pregnancy. It's also recommended if you're going to be caring for children less than six months old," Faddis said.
Dr. Naveen Patil with ADH also noted that this year's surge is on track with pre-pandemic levels as nationwide social distancing slowed the spread and a lack of resources prevented officials from gathering accurate counts.
"This follows national trends, so the number of cases in the U.S. is actually more than five or sixfold," Patil said. "It's a similar trend here."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were around 5,000 cases reported in 2023. As of Nov. 9, 2024, there were 23,000 cases reported this year.
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