AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Public Health has issued a warning following a rise in whooping cough cases, with six recent cases identified at Lamar Middle School.
The city has reported 115 cases this year, marking a 35% increase compared to all of 2024.
Austin ISD is collaborating with health officials to curb the spread at Lamar.
“We work closely with Austin Public Health to ensure community awareness and to stop the spread of any illness,” said Austin ISD Health Services and Nursing. The outbreak at Lamar is linked to increased community spread in Travis County.
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Health officials urge families to ensure vaccinations are up to date to protect against pertussis.
More than half of the cases involve school-aged children, and the rise may be due to improved diagnosis and treatment following education efforts by APH.
Parents are advised to consult healthcare providers if their child has been exposed to pertussis or has a persistent cough lasting more than 10 days.