Runny nose, sneezing, mild cough and fever. What this flu season can mean to a young family.

By Cheyenne Hurst

Whooping cough is surging in Australia. How can we protect ourselves?

In the first three months of 2024, 2,799 cases were recorded in Australia. With more than 1,000 cases being in New South Wales and Queensland.

Missed routine whooping cough vaccinations at the height of the pandemic may mean Australia is more vulnerable now which would explain rising numbers in 2024. Reduced immunity in the population could be one of the reasons we’re seeing a rise in whooping cough cases in Australia.

The last time Queensland recorded more than 1,000 cases in three months was the first quarter of 2013. This was at the tail end of a significant outbreak that spanned 2008 until 2012 – Australia’s largest reported outbreak since the widespread introduction of whooping cough vaccines in the 1950s. More than 140,000 cases were recorded during this period, with the number peaking at 38,748 in 2011.

There was a smaller outbreak between 2014 and 2017, with more than 60,000 cases in these years.

The initial symptoms of whooping cough resemble other cold and flu-like symptoms. These include runny nose, sneezing, mild cough and fever. However, as the disease progresses into the second week, the coughing fits become worse and more frequent. After or between bouts of coughing, patients may gasp for air and produce the characteristic “whoop” noise.

Antibiotics are used to treat whooping cough but are most effective when given during the initial stages of the illness. The best protection in the first instance is vaccination, which prevents most cases of serious illness, and reduces the spread of whooping cough in the community.

Data from NSW Health

With rising numbers of infants and pregnancies in Hay, it is extremely important that families protect themselves and be aware of your symptoms when visiting newborns.

Immunity from these vaccines wanes over time, so it’s also recommended adults receive a booster, especially those that come into frequent contact with babies.

Importantly, although the bacteria is evolving, current vaccines are still very effective at preventing serious disease and reducing transmission. They remain our best tool to limit this outbreak.

Be in touch with the local GP’s or Pharmacy for any concerns.