An infant death from whooping cough has highlighted the urgent need for vaccination against the disease, especially for pregnant women and vulnerable infants.

New Zealand’s ongoing whooping cough epidemic has led to 1232 reported cases and 101 hospitalisations since October 2024.

The recent death, the first since the national epidemic was declared in November, has intensified calls for greater awareness and immunisation efforts.

Matt Reid, a public health medicine specialist with Health New Zealand, Te Whatu Ora, expressed condolences to the family and emphasised the critical importance of immunisation for at-risk groups.

“Whooping cough is highly contagious and can be deadly, particularly for babies under 6 weeks old, who are too young to receive the vaccine,” he said.

Health authorities are urging pregnant people, infants, children, and older adults to receive vaccinations, especially as the disease affects vulnerable populations.

Immunisation for pregnant people is available from 16 weeks, while children should be vaccinated at ages 6 weeks, 3 months, 5 months, and again at 4 years.

A booster is recommended at age 11 and for adults aged 45 and over.

“The best protection for you and your whānau against whooping cough is to get vaccinated – particularly pregnant people, baby [pēpi], tamariki and older adults at higher risk.”

Reid also warned that symptoms of whooping cough can worsen rapidly in infants, urging caregivers to seek medical advice if their child experiences severe coughing, difficulty breathing, or vomiting.

“Immediate medical attention is necessary if your baby’s condition worsens,” he said.

As New Zealand navigates this epidemic, health services emphasise the importance of early detection and vaccination to prevent further tragic losses.

The whooping cough pregnancy vaccine is free and is best given from 16 weeks of pregnancy. The vaccine should also be given with each pregnancy to protect each baby.

Adults are eligible for one free booster from age 45 (if they have not had four previous tetanus doses) and one free from age 65.

New Zealand residents can call the Vaccination Healthline or visit the official website for more information on vaccinations or to book an appointment.

Parents should also seek urgent medical advice if their coughs: