British children hit by croup epidemic

PARENTS in England are being urged to look out for signs of ‘barking coughs’ in their children, as health officials there have noted that cases of croup are on the rise.

The respiratory condition affects a child’s windpipe, blocking the airways to the lungs and typically causes a distinctive cough, and a hoarse voice.

Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, and a rasping sound when inhaling.

The Cardiff and Vale University Health Board have reported an increase in cases this year, and are warning that parents be on high alert.

Typically, the illness is fairly mild and can be treated at home by ensuring a child is well-rested and sufficiently hydrated.

The National Health Service (NHS) has advised administering a single dosage of dexamethasone or prednisone, both of which typically require a prescription.

If parents act fast, affected children will start to feel better in just 48 hours.

However, if left untreated, croup can last up to two weeks, and complications can lead to a child developing an ear infection or pneumonia.

However, the NHS has also strongly advised parents who suspect their child might be suffering from croup against giving them cough syrups and putting them in a steamy room, as one might for a normal cough.

As the temperatures drop, there has been a surge in the number of viruses that can lead to croup, according to Dr Richard Pebody, acting head of respiratory at Public Health England.

The illness differs from other coughing conditions – such as bronchitis and whooping cough – which are typically accompanied by cold-like symptoms, the NHS explained. – The Independent