Whooping cough cases in Arkansas have climbed to their highest level in at least 15 years, with more than 500 infections reported statewide so far in 2025, according to the Arkansas Department of Health.
Health officials said pertussis cases have been identified in more than 50 counties across the state, marking the largest outbreak since the department began routinely tracking the disease. The rise mirrors an increase in cases reported nationwide.
Most of the cases this year have occurred among school-aged children and teenagers. At least 50 people were hospitalized, accounting for about 10 percent of reported cases. More than 60 percent of those hospitalized were infants younger than 1 year old. One death related to pertussis was reported in 2025.
Pertussis is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and affects the lungs and airways. Early symptoms often resemble a common cold before progressing to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks. Infants may not cough but can experience pauses in breathing or difficulty breathing.
The illness spreads through coughing or sneezing, especially during close contact. Health officials say vaccination is the best protection against pertussis and encourage anyone exposed or experiencing symptoms to contact a health care provider.
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