Whooping cough cases are rising: What Mainers need to know
Hey Maine friends, let’s have an important chat — because when it comes to protecting our families, knowledge truly is power. Health officials are sounding the alarm: cases of whooping cough, also called pertussis, are climbing again, and vaccination rates are dipping just when we need them strong.
Here’s the situation:
The CDC reports more than 8,000 cases of whooping cough in 2025 — double what we saw last year. Heartbreakingly, two little ones in Louisiana have already lost their lives to this preventable disease.
Dr. Alyssa Goodwin, a pediatrician at Stellar Pediatrics in Topsham, shared her concerns:
“It’s newsworthy when a child dies of a vaccine-preventable illness because, typically, we do such a great job protecting our kids,” she said.
And she’s right. We have done an incredible job — but a small drop in vaccination rates is putting that progress at risk.
Why Are Whooping Cough Cases Rising?
Here’s the simple breakdown:
- Vaccination rates are falling. CDC data shows a decline from 95% to 93% vaccination coverage among school-aged children — and even a few percentage points can open the door for outbreaks.
- Vaccine skepticism is growing. Conversations about vaccines have gotten tougher, even as leaders like Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. express doubts.
Dr. Goodwin explains it perfectly:
“Parents want to do what’s right for their kids, but it’s a hard decision when accurate information isn’t reaching them.”
In short: misinformation can put our kids — and whole communities — at risk.
Who’s Most at Risk from Whooping Cough?
Infants are particularly vulnerable to the dangerous effects of pertussis.
But adults and older children often unknowingly spread the illness — making booster shots critically important.
Dr. Goodwin shared a personal tip:
“When I had my children, not only did I get a booster, but so did my husband and parents since they’d be around the baby.”
Takeaway: If you’re going to be around a newborn, make sure your pertussis vaccine is up-to-date!
How Can Mainers Protect Themselves and Their Families?
Get vaccinated. Booster shots are available at local pharmacies across Maine.
Stay informed. Use trusted sources like the Maine CDC or HealthyChildren.org for up-to-date, science-backed information.
Talk to your doctor. If you have concerns or questions about vaccines, reach out to a healthcare professional you trust.
Remember: Vaccines save lives. It’s not just about protecting yourself — it’s about safeguarding your neighbors, your community, and the tiniest, most vulnerable Mainers.
Quick FAQ: Featured Snippet Friendly 📚
What is whooping cough?
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease known for severe coughing fits that can be life-threatening, especially for infants.
How can I protect my family from whooping cough?
Stay current with vaccinations, including booster shots, and ensure close contacts of young children are also vaccinated.
Where can I get a whooping cough vaccine in Maine?
Many local pharmacies, healthcare clinics, and doctors’ offices offer the Tdap vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis booster).
At the end of the day, keeping our Maine communities strong and healthy starts with small steps — and making sure we’re all protected is one of the biggest.
Stay safe, stay informed, and keep looking out for one another, Maine!
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