In a tragic turn of events, Queensland Health has confirmed the death of an infant from whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection that has reached epidemic proportions in the state. The heartbreaking loss comes as vaccination rates have plummeted, sparking fears of further spread and severe outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations like young children and pregnant women.
Worst Whooping Cough Epidemic on Record
Queensland is currently experiencing an unprecedented surge in whooping cough cases, with over 41,000 recorded across Australia in 2024 – surpassing the previous annual record of 38,748 set in 2011. Experts attribute this alarming spike to a combination of factors, including disruptions in disease transmission patterns during Covid-19 lockdowns and declining vaccination rates among key demographics.
“This epidemic is the worst year for whooping cough in Queensland on record,” warned Queensland’s Chief Health Officer John Gerrard, underlining the severity of the situation.
Plummeting Vaccination Rates Fuel Outbreak
Vaccination is a critical tool in preventing the spread of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. However, immunization rates have been on a downward trend in recent years, particularly among pregnant women and young children – two groups at high risk for severe complications from the disease.
According to Queensland Health data:
- Pertussis vaccination rates for pregnant women dropped from 77.2% in 2020 to 70.7% in 2023
- Some regions, like Metro North and Darling Downs, have seen coverage fall below 65%
- Immunization rates for one-year-olds declined from 94.4% in 2018 to 90.8% in 2024
- Among two-year-olds, rates fell from 93.1% to 87.9% over the same period
Importance of Timely Vaccinations
“This disease can be life-threatening for young children, with most hospitalizations and deaths related to whooping cough occurring in babies less than six months old,” cautioned Dr. Heidi Carroll, Queensland Health’s communicable diseases executive director. She emphasized that vaccinating pregnant women reduces the risk of infants contracting whooping cough by 75% and significantly lowers hospitalization rates.
Experts also point to the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on disease transmission patterns. “Now these pathogens are circulating among kids – they’ve bounced back – and lots of adults are also getting them,” explained Prof. Nathan Bartlett from the University of Newcastle. He cautioned that it may take years for community levels of respiratory diseases to stabilize post-pandemic.
Recognizing Whooping Cough Symptoms
Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that causes uncontrollable, violent coughing fits, making it difficult to breathe. Its hallmark symptom is a distinctive “whoop” sound during coughing episodes. Other signs include:
- Runny nose
- Low-grade fever
- Mild cough that progressively worsens
- Vomiting during or after coughing fits
- Exhaustion from coughing episodes
The cough can persist for months, earning whooping cough the nickname “the 100-day cough.” Timely medical attention is crucial, as early treatment with antibiotics can help manage symptoms and prevent transmission.
Protecting Yourself and Your Community
As Queensland grapples with this deadly epidemic, health authorities are urging all residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Pregnant women, in particular, should prioritize getting the pertussis vaccine during the third trimester of each pregnancy to pass protective antibodies to their babies.
In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene habits is essential:
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms
- Stay home if you’re sick to avoid spreading the infection
By working together and prioritizing prevention, Queenslanders can help curb the spread of this dangerous disease and protect the most vulnerable members of their communities. The tragic loss of an infant serves as a somber reminder of the importance of vaccination and vigilance in the face of infectious disease threats.
If you or your child develop symptoms of whooping cough, seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing severe complications and safeguarding public health during this unprecedented epidemic.
