Kentucky seeing higher rates of whooping cough than in previous years

Kentucky is seeing higher numbers of pertussis (better known as whooping cough) this year than the past few years, though no deaths have been reported by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. 

As of June 17, Kentucky had 130 cases, which the cabinet said “indicate that the state is experiencing an elevated rate of infection not seen in Kentucky since 2016-2017.” During those years, there were 463 and 449 cases. 

Of Kentucky’s 2024 cases, four infants, one school-aged child and three adults have been hospitalized, according to the cabinet. Most cases are in children of school-going age, though some cases are in infants — who are most at risk for complications — toddlers and adults, the cabinet says. 

Brice Mitchell, a cabinet spokesman, said it’s “not surprising to see an increase this year.”

“Pertussis is endemic in the U.S. and spikes in diseases incidence occur every 3-5 years,” he said. “Incidence of pertussis was low in Kentucky and the U.S. throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, likely due to social distancing measures and mask usage.”

The highly contagious respiratory illness often starts with a runny nose and mild coughing, which then advances to “rapid, violent coughing fits,” the cabinet says. People may also experience trouble breathing and throwing up. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone who is eligible should get vaccinated against whooping cough. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services reports 91% of kindergarteners and 85% of children in seventh grade are up to date on their required pertussis immunizations. 

“Anyone can get pertussis, though infants are at greatest risk for life-threatening illness,” Dr. Steven Stack, Kentucky’s public health commissioner, said in a statement. “Fortunately, vaccinations are available to help prevent serious disease.”