There has been a spike in ‘whooping cough’ cases, with 147 detected so far in 2022, compared with 169 in 2020, and only 27 in 2021.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) says the number of pertussis cases – as it’s known – is concerning considering the low numbers of the past two years.

The national public health institution saw a steady rise in the number of cases reported since May, with 23 logged in July, 33 in August and 53 in September.

Of the 147 cases, 77% of the cases were children younger than five years old, with 79% under three months.

Pertussis symptoms may vary from person to person, however, initial signs and symptoms are similar to the common cold and may include nasal congestion, runny nose, mild sore throat, mild dry cough and minimal or no fever.

Days later, the cough can become more severe and is characterised by episodes of paroxysms, followed by a whooping sound and/or vomiting after coughing.

Pertussis, according to the NICD, is a vaccine-preventable disease caused by Bordetella pertussis and is a notifiable medical condition, according to the National Health Act.

The institute says immunity following vaccination is thought to last for five to six years.

Episodic increases in pertussis cases occur in vaccinated populations every three to five years.

Meanwhile, parents and guardians with children less than five years of age are urged to keep vaccinations updated and seek medical help early, especially for the very young where the illness may be severe.