Ireland reports record 539 whooping cough cases in 2024; urges vaccination for pregnant women.

Ireland saw a record 539 whooping cough cases in 2024, with numbers expected to rise further. The Health Service Executive urges pregnant women to get the vaccine between 16 to 36 weeks of pregnancy to protect their babies. Last year, 25% of cases required hospitalization, mainly affecting infants under five months old. The vaccine is free and crucial for preventing severe health complications in young babies.