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Spread through coughing and sneezing by an infected person, the bacteria is then contracted via respiratory droplets inhaled by others.
Finally, there comes some relief. However, while the coughing itself gradually subsides, it may still linger for weeks or even months.
Characteristic whooping cough symptoms start to emerge during this time. Be prepared for rapid, forceful coughing fits ending with a high-pitched whoop. The coughing can be exacerbated by activity or even during the night.
This is the most infectious stage of whooping cough, even though the characteristic "whooping" sound may not be present yet. Symptoms during this stage often mimic a common cold, including a runny nose, low-grade fever, and a mild cough.
Parents beware: when your infant has whooping cough, there is a chance they won't exhibit the whooping sound. Pay attention to atypical symptoms such as gasping, poor feeding, and bluish skin color (known as cyanosis).
Broken down into three stages (catarrhal, paroxysmal, and recovery) whooping cough tends to cause preliminary symptoms lasting for one to two weeks, followed by up to three months of severe coughing.
Those that should be extra aware and cautious of whooping cough include parents who have infants under one year of age, and unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated individuals of any age.
The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Pregnant women can help protect their babies by getting vaccinated.
Antibiotics can be prescribed to eliminate the bacteria and reduce the risk of spreading it to others. However, they won't shorten the coughing stage itself, so managing symptoms and preventing complications become the main focus.
To protect their newborns, it's recommended pregnant women receive a single dose of Tdap during pregnancy, ideally between 16 and 32 weeks.
A series of five DTaP vaccines is recommended for infants and children at specific ages to ensure protection against whooping cough and other diseases.
It is essential for everyone around an infant or child to vaccinate themselves. Parents, siblings, caregivers, and potentially others should do their part to create a protective cocoon for the younger ones.
Definitively identifying this dangerous ailment can prove very challenging due to early, non-specific symptoms. However, it is possible for doctors to perform a nasal swab test and detect the bacteria.
You should consult with a doctor when you experience a persistent cough, especially with whooping or vomiting. Additionally, for infants, difficulty breathing, gasping for air, or a fever are warning signs.
Immunity from childhood vaccination weakens over time. Thus, the booster shot Tdap is recommended for adults, adolescents, and pregnant women to maintain protection against whooping cough.
Hydration, rest, and over-the-counter medicines can help symptoms stay under control (but consult your doctor first). It is advised that the full course of antibiotics are taken as prescribed.
First and foremost: stay home when sick to avoid infecting others. Additionally, frequently washing your hands and practicing good respiratory hygiene (coughing/sneezing into elbows) is key.
While whooping cough is most severe in infants, anyone of any age can contract it. Adults with whooping cough may experience milder symptoms than children though.
Whooping cough can be very serious, especially for infants. Complications can include pneumonia, seizures, and even death. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
Vaccination can still help prevent complications and protect those around you. Even if you're already sick, getting vaccinated against whooping cough can help reduce the duration of your contagious period.
The characteristic whooping sound is more common in children, but infants and some adults may not exhibit it. But don’t let the absence of the "whoop" mislead you—whooping cough may still be at play!
Leading global health organizations like WHO and the CDC are working to fight whooping cough. Their efforts include the likes of tracking the disease and ensuring vaccine efficacy.
In the long run, whooping cough can lead to seizures, inflammation of the brain, and even death. Protecting yourself and loved ones is so important.
Sources: (National Foundation for Infectious Diseases) (Mayo Clinic) (NHS) (CDC) (Euronews) (Time) (Nemours Children's Health)
See also: Signs you're living in a healthy body
Remember that cough you thought was harmless? Think again. Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness most of us associate with childhood, is making a startling comeback. This isn't just an echo of the past - it's causing outbreaks and even deaths in countries around the world, including the US and Europe. And don't let the name fool you: whooping cough can be far more serious than a simple cough, with potentially devastating consequences.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of the illness have quadrupled in the past year, with over 16,000 being recorded in the US so far. This makes it the highest on record in a decade, with those at most risk being babies under the age of one. Around a third of those who catch whooping cough end up needing to go to the hospital, as it can lead to complications such as pneumonia and even death.
These are sobering facts, but before you hit the panic button, take a deep breath. This guide will be your one-stop shop for understanding whooping cough's resurgence. Click through to learn more about how you can help protect yourself starting today.
Antibiotics cannot shorten the coughing stage, but can lessen its severity and prevent further spread of the bacteria. Recovery from whooping cough can take several weeks, even with antibiotics.
Over-the-counter cough suppressants cannot cure whooping cough, but may offer some relief. However, always consult with your doctor before administering any medication, especially to children.
The whooping cough outbreak claiming infant lives
The CDC record the highest number of cases in a decade
HEALTH Illness
Remember that cough you thought was harmless? Think again. Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness most of us associate with childhood, is making a startling comeback. This isn't just an echo of the past - it's causing outbreaks and even deaths in countries around the world, including the US and Europe. And don't let the name fool you: whooping cough can be far more serious than a simple cough, with potentially devastating consequences.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of the illness have quadrupled in the past year, with over 16,000 being recorded in the US so far. This makes it the highest on record in a decade, with those at most risk being babies under the age of one. Around a third of those who catch whooping cough end up needing to go to the hospital, as it can lead to complications such as pneumonia and even death.
These are sobering facts, but before you hit the panic button, take a deep breath. This guide will be your one-stop shop for understanding whooping cough's resurgence. Click through to learn more about how you can help protect yourself starting today.