State health officials announced earlier this week that a third Kentucky infant has died from pertussis, also known as whooping cough, as cases continue to rise nationwide and across the Commonwealth.
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) says this is the third infant death linked to the disease in the past year and the first time Kentucky has reported whooping cough fatalities since 2018.
KDPH reports 566 confirmed cases as of November 19, marking Kentucky’s largest spike in pertussis activity since 2012. Health leaders warn they expect more cases before the end of the year. Infants under 12 months remain at the highest risk of severe complications.
Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, said officials are heartbroken by the continued loss of young children and urged Kentuckians to stay current on vaccinations. He emphasized that vaccines help protect both individuals and surrounding communities and remain the most effective way to prevent whooping cough.
Health officials confirmed that none of the infants who died—and none of their mothers—were vaccinated. Kentucky’s school immunization data shows declining rates as well: only 86% of kindergarteners and 85% of seventh graders are up to date on required whooping cough vaccines.
KDPH continues to urge pregnant women to receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy, starting protection for their newborns. Infants should receive the DTaP series beginning at 2 months, with boosters recommended for children entering kindergarten, pre-teens, and adults every 10 years.
Officials also encourage basic prevention measures, such as washing hands, covering coughs, and staying home when sick. Early symptoms typically resemble a mild cold before progressing to severe coughing fits that may cause the signature “whoop,” vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
More information is available through the Kentucky Department for Public Health or local health departments.
