Health New Zealand is putting out an urgent call for pregnant people, babies, children and others at high risk from whooping cough to get vaccinated as soon as possible, as New Zealand stands at high risk of an outbreak.

Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is a highly contagious illness that can be particularly dangerous for babies, with cases rising across the motu over the past month to high levels.

“Whooping cough cases have continued to rise significantly during September to the point where the risk of a national outbreak is now considered high,” said Dr Susan Jack, National Clinical Director, Protection, at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.

“Given that outbreaks of whooping cough generally occur in three to five year cycles, with our last major outbreak in 2017-18, and significant outbreaks occurring across the Tasman and around the world, we are on high alert for an outbreak here,” Dr Jack said.

ESR reporting shows there have been 187 whooping cough cases reported for the month of September, compared with 75 cases in the month of August. The numbers are among the highest recorded since early 2019, and are compounded by low rates of vaccination, which means we are at risk of widespread transmission.

“We have sent out alerts to our clinical networks encouraging practitioners to remain vigilant and look for signs of pertussis, which include severe coughing and in babies episodes of turning blue or stopping breathing. We also continue to work closely with ESR and other experts to monitor case numbers and trends.

“That is being supported by a wide range of ongoing prevention activities, with a strong focus on vaccinations for pregnant people, babies and children who are among those most at risk from whooping cough.

“We are most concerned for newborn babies who are too young to be vaccinated. This is why it so vitally important for pregnant people to be vaccinated. This is recommended from 16 weeks of pregnancy as the best and safest way to protect their baby from this serious, and sadly, sometimes fatal disease,” Dr Jack said.

Infants and young children also need be protected by being kept up to date with their pertussis immunisations, which are due at ages six weeks, three months and five months, and again at fou years. A further booster is given at age 11 years (school year 7) – though it’s never too late for children to catch up on their vaccinations.

“Vaccinations are free for all children aged under 18 – including visitors to New Zealand regardless of their citizenship. Adults are eligible for one free booster from age 45 (if they have not had four previous tetanus doses), and, can get one free from age 65.

“It’s also a good reminder that children particularly need to be kept up to date with all of their vaccinations, such as measles, mumps and rubella too – and not just pertussis,” Dr Jack said. “And with schools going back next week, now is a great time to check that you, your whanau and tamariki are up to date with all of your immunisations.”

The free vaccine can be given at your GP, Hauora Māori, Pacific health service, or at some pharmacies. For more information or assistance to book your vaccine call 0800 28 29 26 or visit info.health.nz/bookavaccine