Surge in Whooping Cough Cases Reported

Michigan is experiencing a significant surge in whooping cough (pertussis) cases, with 1,530 reported this year, more than 2.5 times the average from 2017 to 2019. The increase poses a serious risk to vulnerable populations, especially infants under one year old, who face a higher chance of hospitalization and severe complications. Public health officials are urging families to ensure vaccinations are up to date, as many cases involve unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals. Similar trends are noted in Massachusetts and Northern Ireland, where health experts also emphasize the importance of immunization amid rising cases. In Northern Ireland, 3,060 cases have been confirmed this year, with a peak in May, prompting vaccination encouragement for pregnant women. The decline in vaccination rates since the pandemic has been identified as a contributing factor to the current outbreaks.