A growing number of measles cases and outbreaks in several states are being linked to declining vaccination rates, with pertussis, also known as whooping cough, showing a record increase. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 7,599 cases of pertussis reported this year, up from 3,473 cases at this time last year.
The rise in measles cases is being attributed to declining vaccination rates among children, with a recent report showing that only 95% of kids received all four major childhood vaccines. The CDC advises that high rates of vaccination within communities are needed to protect against infection and severe disease.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, causing flu-like symptoms and violent, rapid coughing. It’s especially dangerous for babies because it can interfere with their breathing.
The CDC reports that nationwide, there were 35,435 cases of whooping cough in 2024, compared to 7,063 in 2023. Infants and young children are particularly at risk, with around 92-94% vaccine coverage needed for community protection.
Public health experts warn that declining vaccination rates could lead to a rise in other vaccine-preventable diseases such as chickenpox, diphtheria, tetanus, pneumococcal disease, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and even polio. The risk of polio reemergence is especially concerning, with USAID funding cuts by the Trump administration putting that status in jeopardy.
As vaccination rates continue to decline, public health experts emphasize the need for increased awareness and education about the importance of vaccines. “We’re certainly seeing an increase in the momentum towards the idea of medical freedom or personal choice,” says Crystal Rommen, director of Louisiana Families for Vaccines. “One message that we’re really trying to emphasize is that vaccines are safe and effective.”
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/measles-cases-are-rising-other-diseases-could-follow