Cases of whooping cough (pertussis) are rising and can have serious complications – especially for unvaccinated babies

Whooping cough (pertussis) cases are on the rise in England and young children can be particularly vulnerable to it. Cases are likely to be seen by nurses in primary care and emergency departments, but other nurses in a range of settings, including health visitors and those working on respiratory wards, should be alert. Also known as the 100-day cough, as it can last for weeks or months, the condition often causes a distinctive ‘whoop’ sound from a gasp for breath during coughing.