There have been cases of whooping cough in the US and UK, as well as recorded deaths in China, the Philippines, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, indicating that the disease is making its return globally.
The illness, known by its official name, pertussis, is deadly and can be difficult to identify in young people. The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration reports that in the first two months of 2024, there were thirteen recorded deaths in China, and 32,380 cases reported, which is more than 20 times more than in the same time the previous year. According to the Philippines, the number of infections was 34 times more this year than it was the previous year and 54 deaths were reported in the first three months of 2024.
Everything you need to know about Whooping Cough
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes the highly contagious disease, attacks the upper respiratory system and releases toxins that can cause the airways to swell.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough
Early signs of whooping cough are very much like the common cold, with a stuffy nose, low-grade fever and a little cough frequently reported. This makes it difficult to identify until more serious symptoms appear.
The CDC states that within a week or two, symptoms might worsen and cause “rapid, violent, and uncontrolled coughing fits,” which are followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound made after the fit ends. Coughing fits might last for up to ten weeks.
How do you treat this illness?
Doctors will usually prescribe antibiotics once the illness has been detected, preferably before coughing starts. If a patient continues to cough for more than three weeks, antibiotics are not required since the bacteria has most certainly left the body and the coughing is caused by airway damage.