A Major Spike in Pertussis Cases This Year
Australia is facing a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with 21,336 notifications reported in 2024 so far. This marks the largest outbreak since 2015, raising serious public health concerns.
The Department of Health attributes the increase to factors such as expected epidemic peaks, vaccination coverage, and waning immunity, particularly after reduced exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a severe respiratory disease caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. Early symptoms resemble those of a common cold, but the disease can escalate into severe coughing fits, sometimes leading to vomiting or rib fractures.
Pregnant women and infants under six months are the most vulnerable groups.
The current situation highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. Health experts emphasize that while the vaccine may not prevent infection entirely, it significantly reduces the severity of the illness and the likelihood of spreading it.
Pregnant women are urged to get vaccinated between 20 and 32 weeks to protect their newborns during the critical early months of life.
Source abc.net