Parents told to immunise as whooping cough cases rise

By REBECCA WALSH

Six times the number of cases of whooping cough were reported in the Auckland region last month than in January last year.

Last month 30 positive cases were recorded - twice the number notified in November and December last year.

Nationally, the number of cases jumped from 66 in January last year to 111 last month.

Health board spokeswoman Dr Cathy Pikholz said it was not known if the increase was due to increased diagnosis by GPs or a rise in cases but it was probably a combination. "Whooping cough does go in cycles. Every three to four years we do get an increase over and above what we normally have."

Cases were occurring in immunised children as well as those not immunised, young people and adults.

"We are concerned. All we can do is encourage people to vaccinate their children. Even though immunity does wane after some time it is to protect those vulnerable newborns and babies."