Wednesday, May 6, 2026- Cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, are rising sharply across the United States, with California emerging as one of the hardest-hit states. Health officials are warning that outbreaks are increasing in schools and communities as vaccination rates continue to fall. 

Recent data from the CDC shows the disease has surged back to levels not seen in over a decade, alarming doctors who say infants and young children remain the most vulnerable.

California health departments are now responding to multiple active outbreaks, including confirmed cases at schools in Pasadena and rising infections across several counties. 

Public health experts say the spread is being fueled by lower immunization coverage, delayed booster shots, and growing vaccine hesitancy among parents. Officials are urging families to update vaccinations immediately as cases continue climbing nationwide.

Medical experts warn this is no longer an isolated health issue but a nationwide public health concern that could worsen heading into peak respiratory illness seasons. Symptoms often begin like a common cold before turning into severe coughing fits that can last for weeks. 

Doctors stress that early testing, vaccination, and keeping sick children home are critical to slowing transmission. With outbreaks now spreading faster than expected, health agencies are calling for urgent action before the disease reaches even more schools and communities.