Whooping Cough Cases Surge Worldwide. Here’s Why

There is a worrying rise in whooping cough outbreaks in 2024. In Europe, Asia, and parts of the US, a sudden surge in cases has experts concerned. Such surges occur periodically and vary from country to country. However, the most recent uptick in the UK and Europe is the largest since 2012.

According to the BMJ, in January 2024 alone, England experienced 553 cases compared with 858 for the whole of 2023. China recorded more than 15,000 cases in the same time period — a 15-fold rise year-on-year. Elsewhere, cases have been reported in the San Francisco Bay Area, Hawaii, and New York City.

What’s going on?

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits that often end with a “whooping” sound as the person breathes in. The disease primarily affects infants and young children but can also occur in adults.

Whooping cough is notorious for its symptoms that can last for weeks — it’s often called the ‘100-day cough’ — leading to complications such as pneumonia and, in severe cases, death. Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure, particularly for children and those in close contact with young…