A Pasadena resident has tested positive for whooping cough after a visit to the Kidspace Children’s Museum. The Pasadena Public Health Department reported the case on Thursday, highlighting the ongoing rise in whooping cough cases across the United States.
The individual visited the museum on April 25, between 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Health authorities are urging anyone who was at the museum during that time to monitor themselves and their children for symptoms. These symptoms may include a runny nose, low-grade fever, and difficulty breathing.
As of now, more than 8,470 cases of whooping cough have been reported nationwide in 2025, which is about double the number from the same time last year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the situation as cases continue to rise.
Health officials are particularly concerned about infants and pregnant women, who are at higher risk for severe complications from the illness. They recommend that anyone who feels unwell after visiting the museum should see a healthcare provider and avoid contact with vulnerable populations.
Whooping cough, caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis, can lead to serious respiratory issues. Symptoms typically start with mild cold-like signs and can progress to severe coughing fits. In infants, the symptoms may not include the characteristic "whooping" sound, but they can experience difficulty breathing, which may cause them to turn blue or gag.
The rise in whooping cough cases has been linked to decreasing vaccination rates. Last year, the percentage of children with exemptions from school vaccinations reached an all-time high. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect public health and prevent outbreaks.
Vaccination against whooping cough is part of the DTaP vaccine series, which also protects against diphtheria and tetanus. The first dose is given to babies as young as two months, with additional doses at various intervals throughout early childhood. A booster shot is recommended for pregnant women to help protect newborns.
As health officials continue to monitor the situation, they urge the community to stay informed and take preventive measures against whooping cough and other contagious diseases.