Oregon has recorded its highest number of whooping cough cases since 1950, with 1,105 cases reported as of December 30, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). This surpasses the 1950 record of 1,420 cases.
The majority of cases were sporadic, but there were 44 reported outbreaks this year. Dr. Paul Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division, attributes the increase to decreased vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of vaccination for all ages, particularly infants and pregnant women.
Infants are most vulnerable to pertussis due to their young age and developing airways. Pregnant women also require vaccination to pass antibodies to their babies, providing protection from birth. The OHA recommends vaccination against pertussis for people of all ages.
Source: https://www.kptv.com/2024/12/31/oregon-records-highest-whooping-cough-case-count-since-1950