Whooping cough is making a comeback. Surging cases are being widely reported across the globe, majorly from China as the country reported nearly a 20 times surge in cases within the first two months of 2024. This post-pandemic comeback has equated to 32,380 cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, between January and February of this year. Shockingly, the same two months last year saw no more than 1,421 cases, according to the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration of China. In fact, in 2023, the total number of whooping cough cases in China was close to the cases detected in January and February of 2024 alone.
This is a concerning matter as China provides free vaccines for pertussis, and we all know what happened the last time China reported a widespread respiratory illness outbreak.
The resurgence of whooping cough is not limited to China. Whooping cough remains a significant cause of infant mortality globally and continues to pose a public health challenge, even with high vaccination rates, as stated by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Several European nations have witnessed an uptick in cases since mid-2023, according to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control. The Czech Republic is facing its most substantial outbreak since 1963, with both it and the Netherlands reporting deaths attributed to whooping cough. That is why we must be aware of this respiratory illness.
What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. As per a study published in the journal ‘Infectious Diseases and Therapy,’ this disease primarily affects the respiratory tract, causing severe coughing spells that can lead to complications, especially in infants and young children.
Whooping cough is characterised by intense coughing bouts that can make breathing difficult. The name "whooping cough" comes from the distinctive "whoop" sound that follows a coughing fit when the person tries to inhale. This infection spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it highly contagious, especially in crowded or close-contact settings.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention shared that the symptoms of whooping cough typically develop in stages and may resemble a common cold at first. However, as the infection progresses, the following symptoms may become more pronounced:
- Early Stage: Mild cough, runny nose, low-grade fever, and sneezing.
- Paroxysmal Stage: Intense coughing spells followed by a "whooping" sound upon inhaling, vomiting after coughing, exhaustion, and bluish skin colouration due to lack of oxygen.
- Recovery Stage: Gradual improvement in symptoms but may still experience occasional coughing fits.
Also Read: Whooping cough: 7 Tests For Children Before It Gets Serious
Whooping Cough Prevention and Safety Measures
Just like other respiratory infections, whooping cough can also be prevented through simple preventive measures:
- Vaccination: The most effective way to prevent whooping cough is through vaccination. The DTaP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, is recommended for infants and young children as part of their immunisation schedule. Adults and adolescents can receive the Tdap booster vaccine for continued protection.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Practice good respiratory hygiene by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly and wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitiser.
- Stay Away from Infected Individuals: If someone in your household or community is diagnosed with whooping cough, take precautions to minimise close contact, especially if you or others are not vaccinated.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect you or your child has whooping cough, seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the spread of the infection.
- Follow Doctor's Recommendations: If prescribed antibiotics for whooping cough, complete the full course as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure effective treatment and reduce the risk of spreading the bacteria.
Also Read: Lancet Study Reveals Over 80% of TB Patients Do Not Show Persistent Cough, Other Warning Signs of TB
Whooping cough is a serious respiratory infection that can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. By understanding the symptoms, following prevention measures, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, and seeking medical care when needed, you can protect yourself and contribute to preventing the spread of whooping cough in your community. Stay informed, stay safe!