In light of the resurgence of pertussis across several countries in the region and the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant strains, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reiterated the importance of strengthening vaccination and surveillance systems.
Known as Whooping cough, pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness that has resurged in the Americas. While 4,139 cases were reported in 2023, the number soared to 43,751 in 2024.
In the United States, preliminary data show that more than six times as many cases were reported in 2024 compared to 2023.
In the first seven months of 2025, nine countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Peru, and the U.S., reported over 18,595 cases and 128 deaths.
The PAHO states that the resurgence is linked to declining vaccination rates and emphasizes the need for strengthened, standardized surveillance.
Regional coverage for the first and third vaccine doses dropped to historic lows of 87% and 81% in 2021, respectively.
By 2023, a partial recovery was observed (90% and 88%), but these rates remain below the 95% recommended by PAHO, with significant disparities within countries.
Pilar Ramón-Pardo, head of PAHO’s Special Program on Antimicrobial Resistance, commented in a media release on August 26, 2025, “We still have time to contain this issue, but we must act now: increase vaccination coverage, strengthen early detection, and enhance our outbreak response capacity.”
When visiting countries such as Brazil, the U.S. CDC recommends travelers be protected against pertussis. Specifically, vaccination is essential from pregnant women and infants visiting outbreak areas.
Various pertussis vaccines are offered at clinics and pharmacies in August 2025.