In 2025, the State of Arkansas reported 500 cases of pertussis, better known as “Whooping Cough.” This is the highest number of cases in the 15 years since the state started tracking the disease. Reported cases are up 25% since 2024. Ten percent of reported cases required hospitalization and there was one death. The majority of those hospitalized were infants.
Approximately 40% of the reported Whooping Cough cases were infants and children under the age of four. The second most vulnerable population was older teens. At the onset of whooping cough, the disease looks like a common cold, but it affects the respiratory system with coughing fits that can last ten weeks or more. Infants do not tend to cough but will struggle to breathe or their breathing will temporarily stop.
The best treatment for pertussis is vaccination before becoming sick or antibiotics after the illness starts. If you suspect you have come in contact with pertussis, it is important to seek treatment to prevent the disease from becoming worse or spreading further.
