Alaska’s Whooping Cough Outbreak
Alaska’s outbreak of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, has subsided, but it had significant impacts on residents, according to state data.
The outbreak occurred from April 2024 to 2025, with 679 confirmed or probable cases reported in the state, as stated in a bulletin from the Alaska Division of Health’s epidemiology section.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection. During the outbreak, 74 infants under 1 year old contracted the disease, with most not being up to date on their vaccinations.
- 29 patients were hospitalized, mostly infants under 1 year old.
- One unvaccinated baby died during the outbreak.
No direct quotes available in the text.
Author's summary: Alaska's whooping cough outbreak infected hundreds.