What is whooping cough and why are cases rising in England and Wales?

Data shows increase in infections and experts advise vaccination for pregnant women, babies and young children

Whooping cough might sound like a disease of the Victorian era, but according to new data from public health bodies, it is on the rise in the UK.

Looking at 2023 until late November, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has revealed there were 1,141 suspected cases in England and Wales, compared with 450 for the same period of 2022 and 454 for that period in 2021 - about a 250% increase.