Erie County Faces Largest Pertussis Outbreak in Six Years

Erie County has experienced its largest pertussis outbreak since 2012, with 15 cases reported in September, primarily linked to a church where many were unvaccinated. This rise in whooping cough cases mirrors a national trend, with over 20,000 cases reported in the U.S. this year, up from 4,559 in 2023. Factors contributing to the increase include more testing, potential bacterial mutation, and vaccine hesitancy. Health officials emphasize vaccination as the best prevention, with a recommended schedule for children and booster shots for adults.