Figures of suspected cases of whooping cough in Bolton have been released with the health bosses advising people to get vaccinated. A large outbreak of pertussis (more commonly known as whooping cough) has been ongoing in the UK since the beginning of 2024. According to the UK Health Security Agency there have been 2,793 confirmed cases so far this year and five reported deaths in infants who developed pertussis in the first quarter of 2024 (January to March).
Whooping cough is a bacterial infection which affects the lungs. The first signs of infection are similar to a cold, such as a runny nose and sore throat, but after about a week, the infection can develop into coughing bouts that last for a few minutes and are typically worse at night. The most recent data from the UK Health Security Agency for 2024 week 19 ending May 12 shows each local authority's statistics, it shows Bolton has had three suspected cases of Whooping Cough.
A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “Cases of suspected whooping cough have increased recently across the country, including Bolton. Vaccination is the best way to protect against whooping cough. “Whilst whooping cough can be unpleasant at any age, it can be especially serious for young babies.
“For this reason, it is particularly important for pregnant women to ensure they are vaccinated, and for babies to have all their vaccines on time. Read more top stories here: Homeless Aid Bolton say numbers of people needing food grows Over Hulton .