Warning issued regarding spread of highly contagious 100-day whooping cough across the UK
A 100-day whooping cough warning has been issued as it sweeps the UK. Learn more about what 100-day cough is and what to do if you think you have 100-day cough.
Health experts have issued a warning about a fast-spreading and highly contagious disease known as the '100-day cough' in the UK.
This bacterial infection, also known as whooping cough or whooping cough, has seen a significant 250% increase in reported cases.
Although it starts with cold-like symptoms, it can progress to severe coughing fits lasting up to three months. In this article, we will provide an in-depth analysis of this health problem, including its symptoms, transmission, prevention, and the importance of vaccination.
What is the 100 day cough?
100-day whooping cough is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs and throat.
It is highly contagious and can easily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease gets its nickname from the prolonged duration of its symptoms, which can last up to 100 days if left untreated.
Symptoms and progression of the 100-day cough
The initial symptoms of the 100-day cough are similar to those of a common cold, including a stuffy nose and a mild cough.
However, after a week or so, the infected person may experience severe coughing fits that last for a few minutes.
These attacks are usually worse at night and may be accompanied by a distinctive “squeaking” sound or a gasping breath between coughs. It is important to note that not all people infected with whooping cough will show the “cricket” sound, especially young babies and some adults.
As the disease progresses, coughing fits can become more intense and frequent, leading to complications.
After a severe coughing fit, the patient may find it difficult to breathe and may even turn blue or gray, especially in young babies. Thick mucus may appear, causing vomiting. In some cases, the intensity of the cough can lead to broken ribs and extreme fatigue.
Alarming increase in 100-day cough cases
The recent increase in reported cases of 100-day cough is a cause for concern. Over the past five months, health authorities have received reports of 716 cases, an impressive 250% increase compared to the previous year.
This upward trend highlights the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to slow the spread of the disease.
Importance of vaccination
The 100-day whooping cough vaccination is crucial, especially for babies and children. The National Health Service (NHS) emphasizes the importance of vaccinating pregnant women to protect their babies.
When pregnant women receive the vaccine, their newborns are protected during the first vulnerable months. Professor Helen Bedford, an expert in child public health at University College London, stresses the importance of vaccination, saying whooping cough in young babies can be extremely serious.
Transmission and contagion
The highly contagious nature of 100-day whooping cough makes it important to understand how the disease spreads.
The bacteria responsible for whooping cough, Bordetella pertussis, can easily pass from person to person through respiratory droplets. Coughing, sneezing or even talking can release these droplets into the air, where others can inhale them.
Bacteria can also survive on surfaces for a short period of time, making it possible to contract the infection by touching contaminated objects and then touching your face.
Diagnosis of the cough of the 100 days
If you suspect that you or your child may have 100-day cough, it is important that you seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis.
Healthcare professionals may perform a physical exam and order a lab test, such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, to confirm the presence of the bacteria. Early diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment and to prevent the spread of the disease.
Treatment and management of 100-day cough
Although there is no cure for 100-day cough, early intervention and appropriate treatment can help relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to shorten the duration of the illness and prevent the spread of the infection to others. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Preventive measures
Prevention is key when it comes to 100-day whooping cough, especially since the illness can have serious consequences, especially for babies and young children.
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against whooping cough. The NHS recommends that pregnant women receive the whooping cough vaccine in the third trimester to provide passive immunity to their newborns.
In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of the bacteria. This includes washing your hands regularly with soap and water, using hand sanitizers when soap is not available, and covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
It is also important to avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of respiratory diseases.