Whooping Cough Outbreak Confirmed at McCallum High School: What Parents Need to Know

The Alarming Rise of Whooping Cough in Texas

A recent report confirmed a case of whooping cough, or pertussis, at McCallum High School, raising significant concern among parents and school officials in the community. This is part of a troubling trend, with over 3,500 cases confirmed across Texas in 2025, marking the highest incidence in more than a decade. The Austin-Travis County Health Authority is working alongside the school district to mitigate the spread of the disease.

Understanding Whooping Cough: Symptoms and Risks

Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection that predominantly spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. Initial symptoms often mimic that of a common cold, including a slight cough, sneezing, and a runny nose. However, as the infection progresses, symptoms can escalate to violent and uncontrollable coughing fits, which can lead to severe complications, particularly for the most vulnerable populations: infants, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Parents are urged to monitor their children closely, looking for a “whooping” sound during inhalation or other severe symptoms like difficulty breathing and coughing-related vomiting.

The Importance of Vaccination

Given the alarming spike in whooping cough cases, health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination as the primary safeguard against the disease. The CDC recommends that all family members, including babies, children, teens, and adults, stay up-to-date with their DTaP and Tdap vaccinations. Varun Shetty, Chief State Epidemiologist for Texas, highlighted, "Vaccination not only protects you but also those around you" — a statement reflecting the communal responsibility in preventing contagious diseases.

Local Response and Impact on Education

The outbreak is not isolated to McCallum High School. Other campuses in the Austin Independent School District (AISD) have seen similar incidents. A recent report from AISD noted that multiple schools, including Lamar Middle School, have reported cases this year. It's essential for the school community to engage actively in awareness campaigns and follow recommended health guidelines, including proper hygiene practices and vaccination efforts.

Community Awareness and Ethical Considerations

In light of the recent increase in cases, an ethical dialogue has emerged regarding public health and community interaction. This situation has brought attention to how interconnected community members are, especially in educational settings where children gather. With vaccination rates fluctuating — nearly 15% of seventh-graders in Travis County are unvaccinated against whooping cough — schools must play an active role in promoting health education and preventive measures.

Preventative Measures: What Should You Do?

Parents are advised to ensure their children are vaccinated and to report any instances of coughing or respiratory issues to healthcare providers. The Austin Public Health department remains available for questions and professional advice regarding vaccinations and health concerns, emphasizing proactive measures in protecting children and the community at large.

The surge in whooping cough cases serves as a critical reminder for communities to weigh the benefits of vaccinations heavily against the potential outbreaks they seek to prevent. Ensuring widespread vaccine coverage remains paramount in combating not only whooping cough but also other contagious diseases.

If you have any questions regarding pertussis or wish to inquire about vaccination locations, please contact Austin Public Health at 512-972-5555.