South Carolina health officials are reporting a significant spike in whooping cough cases, part of a broader national trend that has seen the respiratory illness reach its highest levels in over a decade. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) recently warned that cases in the state have more than doubled compared to last year, with the Upstate experiencing the most severe concentration of infections.
Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded nearly 28,000 cases in 2025. This surge follows a post-pandemic rebound where a lack of exposure to common pathogens and declining vaccination rates have left larger portions of the population vulnerable to the highly contagious bacteria, Bordetella pertussis.
The Current Situation in South Carolina
State epidemiologists have identified an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases, including whooping cough, measles, and chickenpox. By late 2025, South Carolina had recorded over 551 cases statewide—a 124% increase over the previous year.
The Upstate region remains the epicenter of the state’s activity, with health leaders attributing the spread to clusters in communities where vaccination coverage has fallen below recommended levels. In the Midlands, Richland and Lexington counties have also confirmed rising numbers as the illness moves through schools and childcare centers.
Recognizing Symptoms and Stages
Whooping cough is often mistaken for a common cold in its early stages, which allows it to spread rapidly before severe symptoms emerge. The illness typically progresses through three distinct phases:
| Stage | Duration | Primary Symptoms |
| Catarrhal (Early) | 1–2 Weeks | Runny nose, low-grade fever, and a mild, occasional cough. |
| Paroxysmal (Acute) | 1–6 Weeks | Intense coughing fits followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound upon inhalation. |
| Convalescent (Recovery) | 2–3 Weeks | Gradual lessening of the cough, though fits may return with other respiratory infections. |
For infants, whooping cough is particularly life-threatening. Many babies do not develop the characteristic “whoop” but instead experience apnea, a dangerous pause in breathing. Currently, about one in three infants under the age of one who contract the disease require hospitalization.
Prevention and Protective Measures
Health experts emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective defense against the outbreak. The CDC recommends the DTaP vaccine for young children and Tdap boosters for adolescents and adults.
Essential Vaccination Guidelines:
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Expectant Mothers: A Tdap booster during the third trimester (weeks 27–36) provides crucial early immunity to newborns.
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Adults and Seniors: A booster is recommended every 10 years to maintain protection as immunity naturally wanes.
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Caregivers: Anyone spending time with infants should ensure their vaccinations are current to create a “cocoon” of protection around vulnerable children.
If a person is exposed, physicians may prescribe a course of antibiotics to reduce the duration of contagiousness, though these medications are most effective when started early.
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