Whooping Cough Outbreak in England Threatens Infant Lives Amid Falling Vaccination Rates
Recent surge in whooping cough cases, exacerbated by unclear vaccination responsibilities and pandemic impacts, has led to multiple infant fatalities.
Overview
- More than 2,700 whooping cough cases reported in England in early 2024, with a significant increase in infant mortality.
- Confusion over vaccine administration between GPs and maternity services contributing to lower vaccination rates among pregnant women.
- Experts stress the critical need for higher vaccination rates to protect infants, especially in the first months of life.
- Recent data reveals a decline in vaccination rates among pregnant women, falling from 75% to below 60% since the pandemic.
- Health officials urge immediate action to increase vaccination awareness and uptake to prevent further deaths.