Louisiana Sees Worst Whooping Cough Outbreak in 35 Years

Shreveport, La. —Louisiana is experiencing its most severe whooping cough outbreak in more than three decades, with state health officials reporting over 350 confirmed cases since last fall. The outbreak has resulted in the deaths of two infants and hospitalizations for more than 60 people.

Sen. Bill Cassidy called on Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to increase public awareness about vaccinations, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable populations. In a letter sent Friday, Cassidy said boosting immunization rates is crucial to preventing additional illnesses and fatalities.

Dr. Joseph Bacchini, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Willis-Knighton Health System, warned that whooping cough, or pertussis, is especially dangerous for infants younger than three months. “The best protection is vaccination—for children, adults, and pregnant women. Mothers vaccinated during pregnancy can pass antibodies to their newborns, helping protect them in the first weeks of life,” Bacchini said.

Whooping cough often begins with symptoms similar to a common cold before developing into severe, prolonged coughing fits. Health experts advise anyone experiencing a persistent cough to seek medical attention, as early treatment with antibiotics can help prevent the disease from spreading.

State and public health officials urge that children and adults remain up-to-date on pertussis vaccinations, which require booster doses over time.