As United The state is working to increase measles cases and outbreaks in several states, with diseases that can be prevented by another vaccine quietly spreading across the country.
At least this year 7,599 cases of pertussisalso known as hooping cough, from 3,473 cases at this point last year. Not only is a record number of parents seeking vaccine exemptions for their children, it’s not only inevitable that vaccination rates are falling in childhood, and the incidence of measles, pertussis and other diseases is increasing.
“When vaccination rates drop, the first disease that appears is measles, which is very contagious, but others will continue,” says Ali Brown, a Texas pediatrician who is the epicenter of the current measles outbreak and a spokesman for the American Academy of Pediatrics. “This is a troublesome trend.”
There was last year 285 cases of measles Everything about 2024. This year, cases have already risen to over 700, with two children increasing. He died of illness. Children are also dying of whooping cough. In Louisiana, two infants have died of illness in the past six months. First death from illness since 2018 – Recent Statements State surgeon general. In January, the South Dakota Department of Health announced their children Death from co-infection with influenza and pertussis. And in February, the local health department in Washington said that children under the age of five in Spokane County were found to be eligible for a total of 5 years of age. Died of pertussis– The first in the state since 2011.
Whooping cough, a type of bacterial infection, spreads to respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It causes flu-like symptoms and violent and rapid coughing. It is known for its distinctive, high-pitched “hoop” sound when someone inhale after a cough. This disease is particularly dangerous as it can interfere with breathing.
Nationwide, there were 35,435 cases of whooping cough in 2024 compared to 7,063 in 2023. Provisional monitoring report From the CDC. a 2,116 low in 2021 Social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic has made it still rebound in 2023. However, the 2024 figures far surpassed the 18,617 cases seen in 2019 and 15,609 cases in 2018.
The disease can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, seizures, brain damage and death. Toddlers and young children are particularly at risk. Approximately one-third of babies under six months of age who had pertussis in 2024 required hospitalization.
“The heart of the disease is that it is caused by this particular bacteria. Bordetella Pertussis“They’re also very happy,” said Amy Edwards, an associate professor of pediatrics at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against infectious diseases and severe illnesses. Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, or DTAP are administered in five doses, in early childhood and infancy. Vaccination and immunity from natural infections will eventually fade, with booster shots recommended every 11 or 12 years, including adults and 10 years. The CDC advises pregnant people to get boosters during pregnancy.
