Whooping cough cases surge in Kentucky, reaching highest numbers since 2012

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Whooping cough cases continue to rise across the country and in Kentucky, with the state reporting the highest number of cases in more than a decade.

The highly contagious respiratory infection has symptoms similar to a common cold, with a runny nose, sneezing and a mild cough that becomes more severe. It spreads through coughs and sneezes, mainly impacting young children and babies.

If untreated, the coughing fits can cause vomiting, exhaustion and difficulty breathing.

Officials said reported cases of the virus — also known as pertussis — continue to spike in the state. According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health, there have been 566 cases across 93 counties in Kentucky this year, the highest number since 2012.

Jefferson County has recorded 41 total cases so far this year.

The infection can become life-threatening, especially for infants. At least three babies from Kentucky have died from whooping cough in 2025. The state health department confirmed that none of those babies or their mothers were vaccinated.

Health officials like Dr. Mark Burns, an infectious disease specialist at UofL Health, stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the illness.

"Whooping cough caused by Bordetella pertussis is highly contagious, which means it only takes a small amount of the bacteria to actually cause a significant infection," Burns said during a video interview. "So again when someone is ill, for adults they need to stay home. Children — they should be kept at home to prevent spread."

The best way to prevent whooping cough is with the DTaP vaccine, which is administered to children through a series of doses at various ages. A Tdap booster shot is recommended for adolescents and adults.

Louisville Metro Health and Wellness offers both vaccines at its Newburg and Dixie Highway clinics by appointment. To schedule an appointment, or ask questions, call 502-574-5380. For more information, click here.

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