Whooping Cough Cases Are Rising in Texas — Here’s What to Know

Protecting Our Community

Texas is currently seeing a significant rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), more than 3,500 cases have been reported statewide so far this year — about four times more than the same time last year. Most cases are occurring in children, and the illness can be especially dangerous for infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated.

As your local healthcare provider, we want to make sure families have accurate, practical information — and access to prevention tools that work. The most effective way to protect yourself and those around you from whooping cough is vaccination.

To make an appointment at Concho Medical Clinic, call (325) 869-9250.

"Our community takes care of each other. Making sure you and your children are up to date on the whooping cough vaccine is one way to do that — especially for the newborns and vulnerable neighbors who depend on us. If you’re unsure of your vaccination status, call us. We’ll walk you through it.” — Amanda Wahmann, Concho Medical Clinic Manager

What Is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by bacteria. It often starts with mild symptoms, similar to a cold:

Runny nose
Mild cough
Low fever

After a week or two, it can progress to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks and make it hard to breathe. Some infants may not develop a strong cough — they may instead:

Gasp for air
Stop breathing
Turn blue

This is why early protection is critical.

Why Vaccination Matters Right Now

The whooping cough vaccine (DTaP for children and Tdap for teens and adults) is the best defense against sickness. Protection can decrease over time, so staying up to date is important.

Current vaccination recommendations:

Infants and children: Start DTaP at 2 months and continue the series as scheduled
Pregnant women: Get a Tdap booster during every pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks
Adults and teens: Have at least one Tdap booster, especially if around newborns

Even vaccinated individuals can still get whooping cough — but the illness is usually milder and less likely to spread.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Infants under 1 year old have the highest risk of serious complications. About one-third of infants who contract whooping cough require hospital care.

Others who should take extra precautions include:

Pregnant women
People with chronic lung conditions (like COPD)
Those with weakened immune systems
Anyone in close contact with infants (parents, grandparents, caregivers)

How We Can Help

Our clinic provides:

DTaP and Tdap vaccines
Vaccination guidance for parents and caregivers
Symptom evaluations
Testing when appropriate
Preventive medications for high-risk exposures

If you think you or your child may have whooping cough, call before coming in so we can take steps to avoid exposing others.

Simple Ways to Prevent Spread

Stay home when sick
Cover coughs and sneezes
Wash hands often
Avoid sharing cups and utensils
Vaccinate on schedule

We’re Here for You

Your health and safety are our priority.

To schedule a vaccine or speak to a provider, call (325) 869-9250 or visit us at 551 Eaker Street in Eden.

Keeping our community healthy starts with prevention — and vaccination is one of the most effective tools we have.