Australia: New South Wales (NSW) reports most pertussis in years

Between January and April 2024, a total of 1,537 pertussis cases were reported in NSW. Notifications of pertussis cases began to increase in 2023 and are expected to continue rising.

The 1,537 cases reported through April 13 is more than what was reported in any other of the past four full years (2020-1,318, 2021-42, 2022- 84 and 2023-912).

There is seasonal variation in pertussis activity, with greater activity typically in the spring and summer months. Outbreaks of pertussis usually occur every few years as population immunity wanes.

The highest rates of pertussis are observed in children aged 5-14 years, followed by those aged 0-4 years. Notifications among 5–14-year-olds are continuing to increase.

Pertussis (commonly known as whooping cough) is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis can cause serious illness in all ages but can be particularly dangerous in babies. Pertussis can cause pneumonia and can be life threatening.

Anyone with pertussis can spread it to others. The bacteria spread from one person to another mainly when someone with the infection coughs and fine droplets that contain the bacteria spread into the surrounding air. Vaccination reduces the risk of infection and severe disease.