(Source-timesofisrael.com)
Pregnant women are being urged to get vaccinated to shield newborns from whooping cough infections as cases rise across Greater Manchester and beyond. The latest reports from NHS Greater Manchester reveal a significant increase in whooping cough cases in 2024, mirroring a broader surge across England, where over 7,599 infections have been confirmed since January. However, the vaccine appeal uptake has dropped significantly, from 97.5% among children under 10 in 2012 to just 81.8% at the end of last year.
Falling Vaccine Uptake
The uptick in whooping cough cases has been accompanied by a worrying decline in vaccine coverage. Dr. Claire Lake from NHS Greater Manchester emphasized the urgent need for increased vaccination efforts, particularly among pregnant women and young children. “It is more important than ever that pregnant women and young children receive the whooping cough vaccine appeal,” she said.
In Greater Manchester alone, health authorities have recorded 400 probable and 126 possible cases of whooping cough since the beginning of 2024. This surge in cases highlights the pressing need for widespread vaccination.
Regional NHS data also reveals a concerning trend: only 52.9% of pregnant women opted for the whooping cough vaccine appeal between January and March of this year. This decline in vaccination rates poses a serious risk, as whooping cough can be especially dangerous for newborns.
The Importance of Vaccination during Pregnancy
Whooping cough, a bacterial infection that affects the lungs and causes severe, prolonged coughing, can be particularly hazardous for newborns. Dr. Lake, NHS Deputy Chief Medical Officer, highlighted the critical role of vaccination during pregnancy. “Vaccination during pregnancy is vital because it provides protection to the baby through the transfer of antibodies,” she explained.
Experts are warning that 2024 could see a significant peak in whooping cough cases, with notable increases already observed in England and other countries. The cyclical nature of the infection, combined with decreased vaccine coverage, raises concerns about a potential health crisis.
A Call to Action for Pregnant Women and Parents
Given the rise in cases and the drop in vaccine coverage, Dr. Lake is urging pregnant women and parents of young children who have not yet been vaccinated to take action. “If you haven’t received the whooping cough vaccine appeal, please contact your GP to book an appointment as soon as possible,” she advised.
Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated to prevent the spread of whooping cough and protect vulnerable populations, especially newborns. With the risk of severe complications from the disease, timely vaccination is a crucial step in safeguarding public health.
The current rise in whooping cough cases underscores the urgent need for improved vaccination efforts. As the number of infections continues to climb, it is essential for pregnant women and parents of young children to ensure they are vaccinated. By taking proactive steps to protect against whooping cough, we can help mitigate the impact of this serious disease and safeguard the health of our communities.
