Pertussis Outbreak Trends

Español: Tendencias de los brotes de tosferina

During 2014, 32,971 cases of pertussis were reported to CDC. This represents a 15% increase compared 28,639 cases reported during 2013.

Age-incidence trends observed during 2014 were similar to those in 2013 and 2012. Increased rates were again observed in adolescents 13 through 15 years of age, as well as in 16 year olds. The majority of deaths occurred among babies younger than 3 months old. The incidence rate of pertussis among babies exceeded that of all other age groups.

Overall reporting of pertussis declined during 2013 after a peak year in 2012. During 2012, 48,277 cases of pertussis were reported to CDC, including 20 pertussis-related deaths. This was the most reported cases since 1955. In 2012, second highest rates of disease after babies were observed in children 7 through 10 years old. Rates increased in teens 13 and 14 years of age.

See the annual number of reported pertussis cases going back to 1922 or view the latest number of cases reported by states and territories. Since there is a lag in reporting to CDC, the most up-to-date information for states and territories is available from local health departments.