Increase in Whooping Cough Cases in Nuevo León Alerts Health Authorities

Monterrey, March 1, 2025. Health authorities in Nuevo León have issued an alert due to the increase in cases of whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease that primarily affects children under five years old and the elderly.

According to the state's Health Department, during the first two months of 2025, there has been a 35% increase in confirmed cases compared to the same period last year.

This surge has raised concerns among specialists, who are urging the population to strengthen vaccination efforts to avoid severe complications.

What is whooping cough and how does it affect the population?

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by a persistent and intense cough, which can lead to difficulty breathing, vomiting after coughing fits, and episodes of apnea in infants.

The disease is easily transmitted through droplets of saliva expelled when coughing or sneezing, facilitating its spread in enclosed spaces such as schools, daycare centers, and homes with multiple members.

Vulnerable groups and most common symptoms

The sectors most affected by this increase in cases are:

• Children under five years old: They are most prone to severe complications, such as pneumonia and seizures.

• Elderly: Their weakened immune system makes them more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections.

• People without a complete vaccination schedule: Those who haven't received the necessary doses of the DTP vaccine are at higher risk of infection.

The most common symptoms include:

• Moderate fever

• Nasal congestion

• Persistent dry cough that intensifies over time

• Difficulty breathing

• Extreme fatigue after coughing episodes

Prevention and vaccination actions

To contain the outbreak, Nuevo León's Health Department has launched a free vaccination campaign in health centers and public hospitals.

Parents are urged to complete their children's immunization schedule with the DTP vaccine (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis).

Meanwhile, epidemiological surveillance has been reinforced in schools and daycare centers to detect and isolate potential early cases.

Recommended measures to prevent infections

Health authorities recommend following these preventive measures:

• Get vaccinated and complete boosters according to the immunization schedule

• Avoid contact with sick individuals

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water

• Wear a mask if respiratory symptoms are present

• See a doctor at the first signs of a persistent cough

Outlook and current situation

So far, no deaths have been reported from the disease in Nuevo León.

However, the rapid increase in cases has raised alarms in the health sector, which warns of the possibility of an epidemic outbreak if timely preventive measures are not taken.

Authorities reiterate their call to the population to strengthen vaccination efforts and visit health centers if symptoms are present, to avoid complications and reduce the spread of the disease.