Health officials have raised concerns about a significant increase in whooping cough cases in England and Wales, with 553 cases reported in England in January alone, raising fears of a potentially high number of cases for the year.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis or the “100-day cough,” poses serious risks, especially for babies and infants. The UK Health Security Agency has observed a decline in the uptake of vaccines among pregnant women and children, with rates dropping from previous years. Symptoms of whooping cough include cold-like symptoms initially, followed by prolonged coughing bouts, especially at night, which can be accompanied by a distinctive “whoop” sound or breathing difficulties in babies. The infection spreads through coughs and sneezes, necessitating precautions for family members of diagnosed patients.
Health authorities emphasise the importance of vaccination, urging pregnant women and parents to ensure their children are up-to-date with vaccinations and seek medical assistance promptly if symptoms arise.