Health Officials Urge Pertussis Vaccination, Safety Measures To Protect Babies; Case Count Surpasses • Lincoln County, OR

December 10, 2025

Oregon’s Declining Pertussis Vaccination Rates: A Warning for the Nation

Oregon is facing a concerning surge in pertussis (whooping cough) cases, coupled with a worrying decline in maternal vaccination rates. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a potential harbinger of broader trends impacting public health across the United States. New data released by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reveals that only 69% of pregnant individuals received the Tdap vaccine in 2024, down from 72% in 2020. This drop, particularly pronounced in rural counties, is fueling a resurgence of a disease once considered largely under control.

The Pandemic’s Shadow and Waning Immunity

The dramatic decrease in pertussis cases during the COVID-19 pandemic – Oregon reported just three cases in 2021 – created a dangerous illusion of eradication. Widespread masking and social distancing effectively suppressed transmission, but also led to a decline in natural immunity. Now, as communities return to pre-pandemic norms, and immunity wanes, pertussis is making a comeback. This phenomenon isn’t unique to Oregon; public health officials nationwide are observing similar patterns.

“We saw a similar dip in vaccination rates across the board during the pandemic as routine healthcare visits were postponed,” explains Dr. Sarah Chen, an epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “The challenge now is to rebuild that immunity and address vaccine hesitancy, which has unfortunately been amplified by misinformation.”

Rural Disparities: Access and Hesitancy

The OHA data highlights a stark disparity in vaccination rates between urban and rural counties. Rates as low as 17% were recorded in some rural areas, compared to a high of 82% in more populated counties. This isn’t simply a matter of access, though that’s a significant factor. Rural communities often have fewer healthcare providers and limited vaccine availability. However, vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and distrust in medical institutions, also plays a crucial role.

“In my community, there’s a lot of skepticism about vaccines,” says Carolina Amador, M.D., MPH, Benton County Health Officer. “People are confused about the need for boosters, thinking that if protection fades, the vaccine isn’t effective. We need to do a better job of explaining that the Tdap vaccine provides crucial short-term protection for the most vulnerable – infants.”

The Rise of Naturopathic Perspectives and Bridging the Gap

Interestingly, even within communities known for vaccine hesitancy, healthcare providers are finding ways to build trust and encourage vaccination. Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., a naturopathic pediatrician in Portland, reports success in framing the Tdap vaccine as an extension of the mother’s natural immunity, bolstering the antibodies passed to the baby through the placenta. This approach resonates with parents seeking a more holistic approach to healthcare.

“I’ve seen whooping cough, and it’s truly awful for infants,” Gibbons emphasizes. “I explain how the vaccine adds to the protective antibodies the mother is already providing. It’s about finding common ground and speaking the language that resonates with each family.”

Future Trends: Personalized Vaccination Strategies and Enhanced Surveillance

Looking ahead, several trends are likely to shape the future of pertussis prevention. Personalized vaccination strategies, tailored to individual risk factors and immune status, are gaining traction. This could involve assessing antibody levels to determine the need for booster doses. Enhanced surveillance systems, utilizing real-time data and genomic sequencing, will be crucial for detecting outbreaks early and tracking the evolution of the pertussis bacteria.

Digital health tools, such as mobile apps and telehealth platforms, can play a vital role in improving vaccine access and addressing vaccine hesitancy. These tools can provide personalized reminders, educational resources, and opportunities to connect with healthcare providers.

Increased collaboration between conventional and alternative healthcare providers, like the example of Dr. Gibbons, will be essential for building trust and reaching underserved communities.

Did you know?

Pertussis symptoms can mimic a common cold initially, making early diagnosis difficult. A persistent cough, often followed by a “whooping” sound, is a hallmark symptom, but not all individuals experience this.

Pro Tip:

If you or your child are experiencing a persistent cough, especially if accompanied by a fever or difficulty breathing, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing complications.

FAQ: Pertussis Vaccination

• Q: Who should get the Tdap vaccine?
  A: Pregnant individuals (during the third trimester), infants and children, adolescents, and adults who haven’t been vaccinated previously.
• Q: Is the Tdap vaccine safe during pregnancy?
  A: Yes, the Tdap vaccine is safe and recommended during pregnancy to protect the newborn.
• Q: How long does the pertussis vaccine last?
  A: Protection from the pertussis vaccine wanes over time, which is why booster doses are recommended.
• Q: What are the symptoms of pertussis?
  A: Initial symptoms resemble a common cold, followed by a severe cough that can last for weeks.

The situation in Oregon serves as a critical wake-up call. Addressing declining vaccination rates requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes access, education, and trust-building. The health of our communities, and especially our most vulnerable infants, depends on it.

Click here to learn more about pertussis in Oregon.

What are your thoughts on the declining vaccination rates? Share your perspective in the comments below!

Explore more articles on public health and vaccination on our website here.

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on health trends and preventative care here.