An infant has died from whooping cough over the Christmas period, Health New Zealand confirmed.
The country declared a national epidemic in November, with 1,232 reported cases and 101 hospitalizations since the outbreak began.
“We are deeply saddened to acknowledge the death of an infant from whooping cough,” said Dr. Matt Reid, a public health medicine specialist with the National Public Health Service. “Our thoughts are with the family during this heartbreaking time.”
Dr. Reid emphasized the importance of vaccination, particularly for pregnant women, infants, and vulnerable individuals. “Whooping cough is highly contagious and can be particularly dangerous for babies, especially those under six weeks old who are too young to be vaccinated.”
Parents and caregivers are urged to seek medical advice if their children develop a cough with a “whooping” sound, vomit, stop breathing, turn blue, become exhausted from coughing, or experience difficulty feeding or weight loss due to coughing and breathing issues.
“The best protection for you and your family against whooping cough is vaccination, especially for pregnant women, babies, children, and older adults who are at higher risk,” Dr. Reid said.
The whooping cough vaccine is free for pregnant people, ideally given from 16 weeks of pregnancy to protect the baby. Vaccines are also recommended for infants at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 5 months, with additional doses at 4 years and again at age 11. Adults are eligible for a free booster from age 45, with another free dose available at age 65.
In 2023, three infants died from whooping cough.
Health Minister Shane Reti expressed his sadness at the infant’s death. “My thoughts are with their family and friends during this difficult time,” he said.
He stressed the importance of immunization in protecting babies from serious diseases like whooping cough. “I’m encouraged by the rise in vaccinations among pregnant women since the epidemic began, but there’s still more work to be done. It’s crucial that we all stay alert to the symptoms of whooping cough and that pregnant women and anyone in close contact with young children get vaccinated.”
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