Surge in Whooping Cough Cases Linked to Nine Infant Deaths

UK health officials urge pregnant women to get vaccinated as whooping cough cases reach highest levels since 2012.

Over 7,500 whooping cough cases reported in England from January to May 2024.
Vaccination rates among pregnant women have fallen to under 60%, contributing to the outbreak.
Infants under three months are at the highest risk of severe complications and death.
Health experts stress the importance of timely vaccination during pregnancy and early childhood.
The cyclical nature of whooping cough, combined with reduced immunity post-pandemic, has exacerbated the situation.