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Recent reporting has focused on whooping cough (pertussis) cases in Australia following high case numbers during 2024 and 2025.
Recent data show that pertussis activity in early 2026 is now at levels typically seen outside outbreak periods, although vaccination remains essential to protect babies and the wider community.
So far in 2026, just over 1,300 pertussis cases have been reported nationally, which is about 80% lower than the same period in 2025.
These numbers are consistent with inter-seasonal levels seen in non-outbreak years.
Reason for high case numbers in 2024 and 2025
Australia experienced a large increase in whooping cough cases in 2024, with more than 57,000 cases reported – the highest annual total since national monitoring began in 1991.
Case numbers declined in 2025 to just over 25,000 cases, although they remained higher than typical background levels until later in the year.
All age groups were affected, but notification rates were highest among school-aged and preschool-aged children.
Several factors contributed to the increase in cases over 2024 and 2025, including:
- the natural cycle of pertussis outbreaks, which occur every 3 to 4 years
- waning immunity over time after vaccination or infection
- reduced exposure to respiratory infections during the COVID-19 pandemic
- increased awareness and testing.
Whooping cough cases have steadily declined since peaking in late 2024.
About whooping cough
Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria.
Early symptoms can include a runny nose or sore throat, and can look like a common cold.
A persistent cough comes next, and can cause severe coughing fits that may last for weeks or months.
It is very important parents and carers know that pertussis is not a mild childhood illness. While people of any age can become unwell, babies under one year of age are at greatest risk of serious illness and complications.
Pertussis can also put a large strain on the healthcare system.
Vaccination is the best protection
Childhood vaccination coverage in Australia remains high, at more than 90% for children aged 1, 2 and 5 years. But it has gradually declined in recent years, and this can increase the risk of outbreaks.
The pertussis vaccine is provided free under the National Immunisation Program for babies at 2, 4 and 6 months of age, and to pregnant people. A booster dose is also given to school aged children.
Two actions are especially important to protect babies:
- vaccination during pregnancy
- on-time childhood vaccination.
Babies often catch whooping cough from adults or older children who may not realise they are infectious, which is why maintaining strong vaccination coverage across the community matters.
Even small declines in vaccination coverage can allow infectious diseases to spread more easily.
A reminder for families
Australia’s immunisation program is evidence-based, carefully monitored and internationally respected.
Vaccination continues to be one of the most effective ways to protect children and communities from serious infectious diseases.
Parents and carers should ensure children receive vaccinations on time and speak with a healthcare professional if they have questions about immunisation.