Concerns have been raised after cases of the '100-day cough' have risen across the country.
So far, there have been almost 3,000 cases of whooping cough across England, almost three times more than the 858 cases recorded in 2023.
Nicknamed the '100-day cough' because of how long it takes for a person to recover, the condition affects the lungs and breathing tubes, and spreads incredibly easily.
The bacterial infection largely affects children, with babies being at significant risk to it.
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The first signs of the infection are very similar to a standard cold, but within a week, it becomes more aggressive, with people suffering fierce coughing fits.
Babies also develop a 'whoop' and can have difficulty breathing.
Sadly, five children have died this year after contracting whooping cough.
Experts have now warned people of the rise in cases this year, with 1,319 people contracting it in March alone.
Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, a consultant epidemiologist for the UK Health Security Agency consultant epidemiologist, said: “Whooping cough can affect people of all ages, but for very young babies it can be extremely serious.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with those families who have so tragically lost their baby.”
Women who are expecting have been urged to consider getting the whooping cough jab, which should provide their child protection until they're able to get the vaccine themselves.
UKHSA says take-up of the vaccine has dropped in recent years, as well as a 'reduced immunity in the population' as a result of the pandemic key reasons to the rise in cases.
Dr Amirthalingam added: “Vaccination remains the best defence against whooping cough and it is vital that pregnant women and young infants receive their vaccines at the right time.”
The NHS urges pregnant women to get vaccinated as soon as possible, with the best time being between 20 and 32 weeks.
At eight weeks old, the baby is then offered a six-in-one vaccine, with a second and third dose being given at 12 and 16 weeks, respectively.
Once a child reaches three years and four months, they will then be offered another booster, which also protects against whooping cough.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, national medical director for the NHS in England, said: “If you are pregnant and have not been vaccinated yet, or your child is not up-to-date with whooping cough or other routine vaccinations, please contact your GP as soon as possible, and if you or your child show symptoms ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111.”
Dominic Smithers