MOHAVE COUNTY — Arizona is experiencing a significant resurgence of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, with reported cases reaching their highest levels since 2015. By the end of 2024, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) recorded 787 cases statewide, with six of those occurring in Mohave County. To date in 2025, the state reported 394 cases, including 18 cases in Mohave County.
Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable illness that poses the greatest risk to infants and young children, who are more susceptible to severe complications, including pneumonia, seizures, and, in some cases, death. The disease often begins with mild cold-like symptoms and progresses to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks.
There are two types of combination vaccines that include protection against whooping cough: the DTaP and Tdap vaccines. The DTaP vaccine is recommended for children, while the Tdap booster is advised for adolescents aged 11-12 and for adults every 10 years. Pregnant women are also encouraged to receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect newborns.
Arizona’s vaccination rates have declined in recent years, with only 89% of kindergarteners up to date on their whooping cough vaccinations.
“It is highly likely that the decline in vaccinations are contributing to the increased vulnerability of our communities,” said Lynne Valentine, Nursing Services Manager for Mohave County Department of Public Health. “Vaccination remains the best way to prevent the spread of this very contagious illness.”
The Arizona Department of Health Services urges residents to:
- Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date for all family members.
- Monitor for symptoms such as persistent coughing fits.
- Seek medical attention promptly if pertussis is suspected.
- Practice good hygiene, including covering coughs and regular handwashing.
- Seek medical advice if you or a family member have been exposed to whooping
cough.
For more information on pertussis or the vaccines, please speak to your primary care provider, contact Mohave County Department of Health at (928) 753-0748, or visit www.cdc.gov/pertussis/. The Arizona Department of Health Services also has an article about this issue that you can read online.
