Galveston County is facing a concerning spike in whooping cough (pertussis) cases this year, with health officials urging residents to prioritize vaccinations. This surge follows zero reported cases in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures.

The number of confirmed cases of whooping cough (pertussis) in Galveston County has increased significantly this year compared to the zero reported cases in 2023. This is a concerning development. The Galveston County Health District is issuing a warning and urging residents to prioritize vaccinations and education in order to combat this highly contagious bacterial infection.
This increase in whooping cough cases is indicative of a more general trend observed throughout Texas, as both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state health agencies have reported comparable increases. The circumstances that have led to the recent epidemics are currently being investigated.
Last month, the potential risks associated with the infection were underscored by the cancellation of a college football game due to a pertussis outbreak, which demonstrated the urgency of the situation. Vaccination is a critical measure to limit the spread of whooping cough and other respiratory disorders as the respiratory virus season approaches, according to health experts.
Community members are encouraged to remain informed and take action to safeguard themselves and those in their vicinity.
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The Gulf Coast Protection District has approved contracts with Jacobs and HDR to begin early design work on the central gates and protective dunes for the massive “Ike Dike” hurricane-barrier system at the mouth of Galveston Bay.
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Texas officials say more than 93,000 cubic yards of sand have been added to 1,000 feet of West Galveston Beach as part of a joint erosion-control project led by the Texas General Land Office, the City of Galveston, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
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The Port of Galveston expects to approach 4 million cruise passengers and more than 445 sailings in 2026, driven by larger vessels, a new terminal, and continued industry expansion. Port leaders say the growth is vital to funding operations because the port receives no tax dollars.