Third baby dies in whooping cough outbreak in 2023

Te Whatu Ora announced today that a baby has died of whooping cough.

There are now three babies under the age of one who have died of whooping cough in 2023.

Te Whatu Ora said the latest death was unrelated to the previous two announced on March 9.

“Our condolences go out to the three families who have lost tamariki to this highly contagious disease,” said Dr William Rainger, Te Whatu Ora, Clinical Officer – Health Protection, National Public Health Service.

“Out of respect for the family, we will not be releasing any further information about the most recent death.”

According to Te Whatu Ora, 11 cases of whooping cough have been recorded so far in 2023.

However, he believes the actual number will be much higher due to the high case fatality rate.

“Although reported cases remain low, these deaths are an urgent reminder that whooping cough is a serious disease, especially for young babies,” Dr Rainger said.

“Parents should see a doctor for their baby or young child if they have a cough that ends in a ‘crush’ sound or vomiting.

“The best protection is to make sure pregnant people, babies and those who will be spending time with babies are all vaccinated.”

Signs and symptoms

Te Whatu Ora highlighted what to look out for when it comes to whooping cough:

Whooping cough starts out as a cold with a runny nose, cough and fever, so it can be hard to recognize it as a serious illness at first. After seven to ten days, the cough worsens and causes coughing spells that may end in a “whoop”, dry retching or vomiting. This disease is unpleasant for everyone, but it endangers the lives of babies.

Whooping cough in young babies is unpredictable and can get worse very quickly. Parents should also seek urgent medical advice if their baby:

• Stop breathing

• Turns blue when coughing

• Seems to have a cold, then cough and have difficulty breathing

• Gets exhausted while coughing

• Not able to eat properly due to cough and difficulty in breathing

• Loses weight because he has difficulty eating and because coughing makes him vomit (being sick).