A new nasal spray vaccine that could prevent the spread of the deadly whooping cough infection is being developed in the wake of a devastating UK outbreak that claimed the lives of 11 babies.
The breakthrough follows Britain's worst whooping cough epidemic in 40 years during 2024, which saw around 15,000 reported cases in England, a staggering increase from just 856 the year before. The outbreak resulted in a total of 22 deaths, including the 11 infants and a further 11 older individuals, most aged over 60.
Understanding the Threat: Symptoms and Danger Signs
Whooping cough, officially known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection. Its early signs mimic a common cold, featuring a runny nose and sore throat. However, after about a week, it can develop into severe coughing fits that last for several minutes and are often worse at night.
These violent coughing spells can cause vomiting, reddening of the face, and in severe cases, complications like sore ribs, hernias, and pneumonia. While some babies make the characteristic 'whoop' sound as they gasp for breath, many do not, making the condition harder to recognise.
The most critical danger is for infants under 12 months. They face an increased risk of dehydration, breathing difficulties, seizures, and pneumonia. A key warning sign is if a child's lips, tongue, face, or skin suddenly turn blue or grey. On black or brown skin, this may be more visible on the palms or soles of the feet.
The Vaccine Breakthrough: Stopping the Spread at Source
In response to the crisis, the Government, through the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), is backing a national clinical trial for a new nasal spray vaccine called BPZE1, developed by ILiAD Biotechnologies.
Initial trial results involving 53 adults, published in The Lancet Microbe journal, are promising. Professor Robert Read, who led the study at the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, stated: "This is the first time a whooping cough vaccine has been shown to prevent the bacteria from colonising the nose and throat in humans."
This represents a potential game-changer. The current NHS injectable vaccine, offered to pregnant women to protect newborns, is effective but does not stop people from carrying and spreading the bacteria. The new spray aims to block colonisation at the mucous membranes, potentially halting transmission.
Current Situation and When to Seek Emergency Help
Following the peak in 2024, infection rates have fallen significantly. NHS England data shows 896 cases between January and June 2025, compared to 15,153 in the same period last year. However, vigilance remains crucial.
The NHS advises calling 999 or going to A&E immediately if you or your child:
- Have lips, tongue, face or skin that turn blue or grey.
- Experience seizures.
- Find it hard to breathe properly (shallow breathing).
- Have chest pain that worsens when breathing or coughing, which could signal pneumonia.
If the BPZE1 vaccine's efficacy is confirmed in larger trials and it gains regulatory approval, it could be administered to both adults and children, offering a powerful new tool to prevent future tragic outbreaks.
