A new nasal spray whooping cough vaccine could offer better protection and curb spread, scientists say.
The vaccine, known as BPZE1, aims to stop the bacteria living in the nose and throat (blocking colonisation).
Current vaccines do not give lifelong protection or prevent people carrying or transmitting it.
Eleven babies died among about 15,000 whooping cough cases reported in England in 2024, up from 856 the year before.
The vaccine was developed at the National Institute for Health and Care Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre. Trials found strong immune responses in both the nose and the blood.
Prof Robert Read, who led the study, said: “The vaccine could represent a big step forward in stopping the spread of the disease.”
If the findings are confirmed in further trials and the vaccine is approved, it could be given to adults or children.
Public health minister Ashley Dalton said: “It could cut transmission and offer longer-lasting protection for everyone, not just newborns.
“It’s a powerful showcase of the UK’s world-class research sector driving innovation to protect future generations.”
Whooping cough spreads easily between people. Early signs are like a cold, then bouts of coughing that can include a “whoop” sound.
The cough can last for weeks or months.
Parents are urged to seek an urgent appointment if their baby is under six months and has symptoms of whooping cough.
The whooping cough vaccine is routinely given as part of the 6-in-1 vaccine for young babies, with a pre-school booster at age three.
Pregnant women can have the vaccine at around 20 weeks of pregnancy.
