BROWNFIELD, Texas — The South Plains Public Health District says it has received laboratory confirmation of whooping cough cases in the district and urges residents to watch for symptoms, seek care when needed, and check their vaccination status.
In a Sept. 25 news release, the district did not give a case count or identify which communities had reported cases. The district serves Terry, Gaines, Dawson and Yoakum counties. South Plains Public Health District
Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It often begins with cold-like symptoms, including a runny or stuffy nose, a mild fever, and a light cough. Symptoms usually appear five to 10 days after exposure, but can take up to three weeks. After a week or two, the cough may develop into repeated, severe coughing fits that can cause vomiting or difficulty breathing. The illness can be especially serious for babies and people with weakened immune systems. CDC
The health district advises anyone with a persistent cough or a possible exposure to contact a healthcare provider. Antibiotics are most effective when started early and can reduce the time a person is contagious. Residents who are sick should stay home and avoid close contact with babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Anyone having trouble breathing needs prompt medical attention; a baby who stops breathing, turns blue or has a seizure needs emergency care. Screenshot 2026-09-28 at 10.36.… CDC
Vaccination remains the district’s main prevention message. Children receive the DTaP vaccine as a five-dose series, while adolescents are recommended to receive a Tdap dose at age 11 or 12. Adults who have never received Tdap should get a dose, and pregnant women are recommended to receive Tdap during each pregnancy, preferably between weeks 27 and 36, to help protect their newborns. Adults should also keep up with recommended 10-year tetanus boosters, which may be Td or Tdap. CDC
The district says it is monitoring the situation and working with the Texas Department of State Health Services. Residents seeking more information can contact the South Plains Public Health District at 806-637-2164. Screenshot 2026-09-28 at 10.36.…
