Queensland is currently facing a concerning surge in whooping cough cases. Health officials have reported over 2,380 infections in just the first few months of 2025.

This figure is more than three times the average number of cases recorded annually between 2020 and 2024. The trend indicates a rapid and unexpected rise in infections.

In 2024 alone, the state documented 15,012 whooping cough cases. This number surpasses the combined total of cases reported across the previous 11 years, highlighting the scale of the outbreak.

Experts believe that declining immunisation rates are a major contributing factor to this spike. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination efforts for other diseases have slowed significantly.

Another factor linked to the increase is a drop in basic personal hygiene habits. Practices such as frequent handwashing and staying home when sick have been less consistent post-pandemic.

Health officials are urging the public to get up to date with vaccinations, especially for children, pregnant women, and vulnerable populations. Immunisation remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of whooping cough.

Parents are also being encouraged to monitor their children for early symptoms such as a persistent cough, sneezing, or mild fever. Prompt treatment and isolation can help limit transmission.

As Queensland continues to address this outbreak, public health campaigns are focusing on raising awareness, improving hygiene practices, and boosting vaccination coverage to protect communities from further spread.