Pertussis Cases Rise in Minnesota: Health Officials Urge Vaccination
minnesota residents should be vigilant against pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, as the state began 2026 with three confirmed cases reported in Anoka, Dakota, and Hennepin counties. This follows a critically important year for the disease in 2025, with 1,284 confirmed or probable cases reported as of December 31st.
2025 Pertussis Trends in Minnesota
The majority of cases in 2025 – 78%, totaling 999 individuals – were reported in children 17 years of age and younger, highlighting the vulnerability of this age group. Hennepin County experienced the highest number of cases with 221, followed by Ramsey County (104) and dakota County (102). Health officials also documented 128 preliminary pertussis outbreaks throughout the year.
Vulnerable Populations and Severe Illness
Infants and pregnant individuals are particularly susceptible to severe complications from pertussis. In 2025, 78 cases were identified in children under one year of age, with 39 occurring in infants under six months old. Five cases were diagnosed in pregnant women. Of all reported cases, 28 resulted in pneumonia, and 27 required hospitalization.
Vaccination remains Key Defence
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) strongly emphasizes the importance of staying up-to-date on vaccinations. While vaccine protection can diminish over time, vaccinated individuals generally experience milder symptoms. “Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and your community from this highly contagious disease,” a senior official stated.
Understanding Pertussis: Symptoms and Transmission
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection affecting the lungs, spread through respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. The initial symptoms often mimic a common cold – sneezing,a runny nose,and a mild fever. However, after one to two weeks, the illness progresses to a severe cough characterized by:
- Sudden, uncontrollable bursts of coughing without pausing for breath.
- A distinctive high-pitched “whooping” sound during inhalation, though this symptom is less common in infants, adults, and those vaccinated.
- Vomiting following coughing spells.
- A bluish discoloration of the face or lips due to oxygen deprivation.
- Worsening symptoms at night.
While individuals may appear well between coughing fits, the illness is profoundly exhausting. The cough can persist for several weeks or months as the lungs heal.
Risks for Infants and complications
Pertussis poses a significant threat to infants, who are more likely to develop serious complications. Bacterial pneumonia is the most common complication, but rare instances of seizures, brain inflammation, and even death have been reported.
Available Vaccines and Recommendations
Two vaccines are available to prevent pertussis: DTaP and Tdap. Both vaccines combine protection against pertussis with tetanus and diphtheria. the appropriate vaccine and dosage depend on age. Health care providers can provide personalized recommendations. Specifically, pregnant women are advised to receive a Tdap booster during the third trimester of each pregnancy. If a Tdap dose wasn’t administered during pregnancy, it should be given immediately after delivery. Even those who have been vaccinated may still contract pertussis,but typically experience a less severe illness.
