Whooping cough vaccination
Whooping cough (pertussis) cases continue to rise, with 1,319 cases confirmed in March 2024 compared with 858 cases for the whole of 2023. The infection can be serious for babies who are too young to start their vaccinations and may lead to complications resulting in hospitalisation and even death. The pertussis vaccination in pregnancy provides protection for pregnant women and young babies against serious illness. The NHS is encouraging anyone pregnant to come forward, and for staff who come into contact with them to signpost or offer this vaccination at every opportunity. You can find further resources from NHS England on the campaign resources website.