The outbreak of whooping cough has worried health officials in various countries. Apart from the many deaths in China, cases have also been reported in the US, UK, Philippines, Czech Republic and the Netherlands. This deadly infection, more common in children and infants, can be a cause for concern in the coming days. Thirteen deaths were reported in China in the first two months of 2024, along with 32,380 cases, according to the National Administration for Disease Control and Prevention — a 20-fold increase from a year earlier. (Also read: Whooping cough is happening more often than before, know what to do)
What is whooping cough?
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection, caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, and is common in infants and young children. The infection spreads easily from one person to another mainly through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
“It spreads mainly through respiratory droplets. Symptoms include runny nose, dry cough that classically sounds like whooping. Fever, sneezing, watery eyes, vomiting etc. Prevention through vaccination The three primary doses are given at 6, 10 and 14 weeks, and a booster after 14 weeks. General measures should always be considered such as hand hygiene and covering the mouth if the child is sneezing or coughing,” Dr Shreya. Dubey – Consultant – Pediatrics and Neonatology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram told HT Digital.
“It is characterized by severe coughing fits, followed by a characteristic ‘whooping’ sound as the affected person gasps for air. Whooping cough differs from viral cough in that it worsens over time rather than showing improvement. It can last up to 100 days. It can also lead to vomiting after coughing,” says Dr Gurmeet Singh Chhabra, Director and HOD, Pulmonology Marengo Asia Hospital, Faridabad.
symptoms of whooping cough
“The bacteria damage the cilia, causing bronchial inflammation and excessive mucus production, leading to symptoms like a strong cough, common cold, and mild fever,” says Dr. Whooping cough infection can be accompanied by pneumonia, seizures, and cerebral palsy. “There could be some serious complications like damage.” Mayank Saxena, Additional Director, Pulmonology, Fortis Noida.
“People suffering from this respiratory infection may experience symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, mild dry cough and fever. This disease can seriously affect infants and young children. If not treated, Kali Cough can cause long-term disability or death. Patients can develop serious health complications, such as breathing problems or seizures, such as lung infections (pneumonia), seizures (seizures) and brain damage (encephalopathy), says Dr. Chhabra. Could be.”
How is it diagnosed?
“Diagnosis is usually based on coughing fits in the presence of known exposure to disease,” says Dr. Saxena. Laboratory testing, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or culture of respiratory secretions, detects the presence of Bordetella pertussis bacteria. Can confirm the diagnosis.” ,
prevention
The DTaP vaccine is recommended for children while the Tdap vaccine can be given to adults to provide protection against pertussis.
“It is essential to prevent pertussis using the DTaP vaccine, which is recommended for children at 2, 4, 6 and 15-18 months of age, with a booster dose at 4-6 years of age. Adults and pregnant women Tdap vaccine, which provides additional protection against pertussis; in addition, good hand hygiene, covering the face when coughing/sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can help reduce the spread ,” says Dr. Saxena.
“Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent this infection. DTaP vaccine is routinely given in multiple doses to infants and young children from 2 months of age because it protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Boosters are recommended for adolescents. Pertussis-containing vaccines are recommended for adults and are also safe for pregnant mothers. Pregnant women are advised to get the pertussis vaccine between 20 and 32 weeks to increase protection against whooping cough. During this period of pregnancy Vaccination at this stage may be beneficial to the fetus as the mother passes pertussis antibodies to her growing baby, which will protect the baby after birth – even after vaccination, says Dr. Chabra. Even before being old enough.”
“Treatment usually includes antibiotics, supportive care such as hydration/rest, and symptomatic management,” the expert says.
“The preventive aspect includes wearing a mask. Antimicrobial prophylaxis is recommended for all close contacts within 21 days of the onset of cough of the index patient. Avoid sending children who are suspected of having whooping cough to school/daycare/gatherings. Suspected or who are suffering from whooping cough.” Dr. Chabra says.
