Preventing whooping cough
As experts warn of rising cases, what it is and how do you catch it?
Whooping cough has been on the rise. There were 553 confirmed cases in England in January alone, compared with 858 cases for the whole of 2023. So, what makes whooping cough different from regular coughs? Howiswhoopingcoughdifferent from‘normal’coughs?
While many coughs are caused by the common cold virus, whooping cough is a bacterial infection (known medically as pertussis).
“Whooping cough often appears as a normal cough or cold at first, however you may notice symptoms intensifying after a week or two,” says Dr Kathryn Basford from online doctor, Zava. “While a typical cough clears up in a few weeks and feels mild, whooping cough can linger for much longer, even up to a few months.
“The key difference to look out for between a mild cough and whooping cough is the intensity. Whooping cough comes in strong coughing fits, especially at night, and most notably includes a high-pitched ‘whoop’ as you struggle to breathe. It can even lead to vomiting, a bright red face, and difficulty breathing.
“And unlike a regular cough, whooping cough is much more contagious. If you haven’t received a vaccination for whooping cough, it’s definitely worth seeing a doctor to explore getting one. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and spreading.” Howdoyoucatchwhoopingcough?
“Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness, meaning it spreads through the air via tiny droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes,” says Basford.
“Additionally, the bacteria can linger on surfaces touched by an infected individual, creating indirect transmission if someone else touches the surface and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth. This is why frequent hand washing and maintaining good respiratory hygiene, like covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, are crucial in preventing the spread.” Doesitonlyaffectchildren?
Basford explains: “While whooping cough is most commonly associated with young children, it is still possible for adults to catch it. Adults typically experience milder symptoms than children.” Canwhoopingcoughbeserious?
“Whooping cough can definitely be serious, especially for young babies who haven’t yet been vaccinated. Younger children especially can struggle to breathe during coughing fits, leading to complications like pneumonia and in some rarer, more severe cases, death,” Basford cautions. “Even in adults, the constant coughing can be debilitating, causing sleep problems and making daily activities tough.” Howelsecanyoupreventit?
“The best way to avoid a serious whooping cough is with vaccination – the vaccine is included in the routine NHS vaccination schedule and is given to babies and then as part of the pre-school boosters. Pregnant women should also receive the vaccination to protect their baby once it is born; this is given between 16 and 32 weeks.” Howdoyoutreatwhoopingcough?
“Treating whooping cough depends on a few factors, like your age and how long you’ve had it. Infants under six months are at greater risk of complications and often require hospitalisation and specific care,” says Basford.
“If you’re diagnosed early (within three weeks), antibiotics can help. Medication won’t necessarily make you feel better faster, but it plays a crucial role in stopping the spread.
“The focus is on managing symptoms: getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and using a cool mist humidifier to ease the cough. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can also help with discomfort.”
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Springtime has sprung, and with the new time of year comes seasonal dangers. Pet owners have been told to keep an eye on their pets, with PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing sharing spring safety messages and advice. Nina says: “Many of us will be pleased the winter gloom is on the way out, and both flowers blooming and more daylight hours are back. Whilst enjoying the new season, it’s important for animal lovers to watch out for certain dangers that spring brings.
Tick season – “Most active in warmer months, ticks will begin to make an appearance in spring. They are parasites that embed their heads under the skin and feed on animal or human blood. Safety concerns are because of the diseases they may carry, which include Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis and tick-borne encephalitis, which can make people and pets very poorly, in extreme cases, in those with a poor immune system these, can be fatal.
"Ticks are commonly found in long grass, woodlands, and areas with lots of sheep or wildlife, so be mindful when heading out for dog walks. Be sure that your dog is up to date with their flea and tick treatment as this will give them some protection as any ticks that latch on should be weakened or killed if you don’t find them for a while.
"Check your dog for ticks after walks, as well as checking your cat if your feline friend is a bit of an adventurer - you may find a tick before it has had the chance to attach. They are commonly found on your pet's head, ears, around eyes, armpits, groin and tummy, but you want to give your pet a complete check over just in case.
Poisonous Spring plants – “As temperatures rise, we begin to see spring bulbs bloom. Many beautiful common plants, such as snowdrops, daffodils and tulips are toxic to pets and can lead to them becoming unwell if they eat them.
"Bulbs often have a higher concentration of nutrients than leaves or flowers, so can be even more dangerous for your pet. When gardening, keep your pets away from toxic plants and call your vet straight away if you think your pet has chewed or swallowed any part of it.
Watch out, bees about – “With more flowers blossoming, bumblebees will also make more of an appearance in your garden, so keep your pets away from bees buzzing around to avoid any painful stings. This is when teaching your pet a simple ‘leave’ command can come in handy!
Countryside walks – "The warmer weather makes longer walks even more appealing. When venturcountryside ing out into the look out for farm animals, especially those with young lambs, calves or hens with chicks.
Keep your dog on a short lead when entering fields to prevent injury and stress to farm animals or your fourlegged friend.