This Contagious Disease Had More Infections in Maine Than Normal

When comparing general health to previous years, 2024 was a relatively healthy year overall. However, here in Maine, we saw an uptick in a particular disease!

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Yes, we want to reiterate that while 2024 may not have been a standout year for health, when we compare it to the challenges of the past half-decade, there’s still so much to be grateful for.

Before we get into the details of this disease, let’s address an important question: how do we know about this trend?

The Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention works to protect public health by monitoring and addressing health concerns across the Pine Tree State. Their purpose includes disease prevention, health education, and emergency preparedness to keep Mainers safe and healthy. They share important updates and health advisories through their website, social media, and news outlets, ensuring people have the information they need to stay informed.

Now that we’ve established that, which contagious disease had more infections this year than in previous years?

According to an advisory from the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention, pertussis experienced a noticeable increase in 2024 compared to 2023, with most cases involving teenagers and young children under five. The Maine CDC emphasizes early treatment and provides healthcare providers with resources to identify, test, treat, and prevent pertussis, especially in individuals with prolonged coughs or known exposure to the illness.

This trend in Maine mirrors a national increase, with five times more cases reported across the U.S. in 2024 compared to 2023.

Pertussis cases in the United States were unusually low during the COVID-19 pandemic, likely due to mitigation measures such as masking and remote learning. However, in 2024, cases have significantly increased, surpassing both 2023 and the pre-pandemic levels of 2019.

As recommended by the Maine Center for Disease Control, state and local health departments are well-prepared to manage this rise in cases with effective control strategies.

So there you have it—pertussis cases rose in 2024 compared to previous years. Were you affected, or does this trend surprise you? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.