Whooping cough surge in Hawaii raises concerns amid declining immunization
While cases of measles continue to spread throughout the U.S., Hawaii is now facing a new health concern with a rise in pertussis, also known as whooping cough. The State of Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) confirmed last week that the number of pertussis cases in the Aloha State has reached a “worrying rate” with 108 cases reported as of May 15, surpassing the total cases reported in 2024.
Pertussis is labeled by the DOH as a “highly contagious respiratory disease” that spreads through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. The symptoms of pertussis can often resemble a cold but can progress to intense coughing fits. In children, these coughing fits can be followed by a deep breath that makes a whooping sound. Complications of pertussis can include pneumonia, seizures, apnea, encephalopathy, and even death.
The most effective way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination. The DTaP vaccine is administered to children under 7 years old, while the Tdap vaccine is for older children and adults. Multiple doses are generally recommended for infants, children, and adults. However, Hawaii has fallen below national averages in terms of childhood vaccinations, which is a cause for concern.
Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing pertussis outbreaks. He noted that Hawaii is below the national average in terms of childhood vaccines and stressed the effectiveness of the DTaP vaccine in providing close to 100% protection with appropriate dosages. Children should receive the DTaP vaccine in five doses, starting at two months, with a booster at 4 to 6 years old.
Dr. Siegel explained that pertussis can be easily mistaken for other respiratory diseases and can be treated with antibiotics, but the best protection is vaccination. He highlighted the characteristic whoop sound among children, which is caused by clogged airways that are not yet well-developed. About one-third of babies under 1 year who contract whooping cough are at risk of hospitalization.
Dr. Neha Pathak, WebMD chief physician editor, echoed the importance of vaccination in preventing pertussis. She emphasized that while vaccines like MMR can provide lifelong protection, pertussis immunity decreases over time, making boosters necessary for adolescents and adults.
The Hawaii DOH stressed its strong recommendation for children and adults to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations for disease prevention. While the current situation with measles in Hawaii is under control, the health department warned that measles exposure is still a threat among travelers. With more than 1,000 measles cases reported across 30 states this year, the risk remains high for future travel-related measles cases reaching Hawaii.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals to prioritize vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like pertussis and measles. Staying up to date with recommended vaccinations is key to protecting both individuals and communities from potential outbreaks.
