Arkansas has recorded more than 500 confirmed cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in 2025 — the highest number since the state began regularly collecting data 15 years ago, according to the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). Read more below.

Cases were reported in over 50 counties across the state, with a significant concentration among school-aged children and teenagers. At least 50 individuals were hospitalized, accounting for 10% of all cases. The most vulnerable population proved to be infants under one year old, who made up more than 60% of hospitalizations. One infant death due to pertussis was reported this year.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The illness often begins with cold-like symptoms including a mild cough and runny nose, progressing to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks. In infants, the symptoms may be less obvious but more dangerous — including apnea (pauses in breathing), cyanosis (a bluish skin tone), and difficulty breathing.

The disease is spread through coughing and sneezing and can be especially dangerous to infants and people with weakened immune systems or underlying conditions like asthma. Older siblings and adults often unknowingly transmit the infection to babies and other household members.

Health officials emphasize that the best protection against pertussis is vaccination. The ADH recommends that people check with their healthcare providers about staying up to date on their pertussis vaccine and discuss preventive treatment options if exposed to the disease.

Nationwide, pertussis cases have also increased, contributing to growing concern among public health officials.

For more information and up-to-date data on pertussis in Arkansas, visit the ADH pertussis dashboard at https://adhcancer.arkansas.gov/Documents/Pertussis_public.html.