Comal County’s Public Health Department reports a spike in pertussis/whooping cough cases both locally and across Texas.
There were nine reported cases in May, one in April, and one in February, according to data on the county’s website.
By mid-April, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported 1,060 cases to date, outpacing the total of 1,928 cases of pertussis in 2024.
The highly contagious respiratory disease is especially dangerous for infants and young children. Babies under six months are at the greatest risk of serious complications.
Seven in 10 deaths from whooping cough occur in babies under two months, the county said on social media. They can get whooping cough from older siblings, parents and caregivers who might not know they have the disease.
In many children, symptoms include a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like a whoop.
People of all ages should be vaccinated against whooping cough. The DTaP shot is recommended for young children and protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. The Tdap vaccination, which also protects against tetanus and diphtheria, is available for pregnant women, preteens, and older adults.
To schedule a vaccination appointment, call Public Health at 830-221-1150.
