Queensland is seeing a sharp rise in whooping cough cases, with over 2,380 infections reported in the early months of 2025—more than triple the average from 2020 to 2024.

In 2024, the state recorded 15,012 cases, surpassing the combined total of the previous 11 years.

Health experts link the surge to declining immunisation rates since the COVID-19 pandemic, along with lapses in personal hygiene practices.