Resurgence of Whooping Cough in Hungary: Understanding and Key Prevention Measures
This summer, Hungary has seen an alarming rise in whooping cough infections. The National Centre for Public Health (Nemzeti Népegészségügyi Központ) has released data showing a sharp increase in suspected cases, reaching a record high in the last week of July, according to Portfolio.hu. This resurgence has raised concern among the general public and healthcare professionals alike, prompting a closer look at this infectious disease and the measures needed to protect yourself and control its spread.
What is whooping cough?
Whooping cough, scientifically known as Pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a bacterium called Bordetella pertussis. The disease is known for its severe coughing fits, making breathing hard. The infection manifests in two stages after an incubation period typically lasting 7 to 10 days.
Symptoms of whooping cough resemble those of a common cold, including:
- nasal congestion,
- runny nose,
- fever, and
- mild cough.
When the disease progresses to more severe stages, it leads to numerous rapid coughs followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound.
Young babies might not make the classic ‘whoop’ sound, and sometimes, their coughing can be followed by brief periods when they stop breathing. After this phase, the coughing episodes become less frequent and less severe, and the baby gradually gets better (this can take up to three months).
What long-term effects whooping cough may pose?
The disease can be most severe in unvaccinated infants, posing a risk of serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalopathy, seizures, and even death. In adults and older children, it may lead to temporary breathing difficulties, broken ribs, rectal prolapse, and hernias.
How does the infection spread?
Whooping cough is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread by touching objects that have been contaminated with the bacteria and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. Whooping cough is most contagious during the first two weeks of illness, but it can still be spread for up to three weeks after symptoms start.
How can you protect yourself or your child from getting infected by whooping cough?
Vaccination: Shield from an early age
Vaccination plays a pivotal role in disease prevention. In Hungary, vaccination against whooping cough is compulsory, which aligns with our ethos at FirstMed, to put prevention ahead of cure.
At FirstMed’s Budapest clinic, babies and children get vaccinated starting from two months of age, and the complete immunization finishes by the age of six months. Whooping cough vaccines, similarly to other childhood vaccinations are administered during Well-Child-Check visits, ensuring that little ones are protected from the earliest ages. – Shares Dr. Zsófia Laufer, FirstMed’s pediatrician.
Getting vaccinated is also crucial for pregnant mothers in their third trimester, four weeks before the baby’s arrival. Moreover, we encourage close relatives and child caregivers to update their vaccinations to create a safe bubble around thee vulnerable. This strategy safeguards the mother and newborn’s immediate protection against whooping cough.
Power of booster vaccinations for adults
As we get older, our immune system produces fewer antibodies, making us less resistant to viruses and bacteria. The immunity provided by childhood vaccines declines over time, so it is usually recommended that adults receive booster vaccines. The National Center for Public Health recommends adherence to a specific vaccination schedule in adulthood. If you would like to know what vaccinations are recommended for you at what age, please contact our GPs.
Although it’s crucial to remember that while vaccination dramatically boosts the immune system’s ability to fight the disease, no vaccine offers 100% protection. This reality underscores the importance of getting vaccinated, not just for personal protection but for community health. To prevent the spread, ensure that all family members, especially infants and pregnant women, get vaccinated.
In addition to children, our clinic provides vaccination against whooping cough for adults, which may be administered upon a GP visit.
Good personal hygiene practices
Further to vaccinations, good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing, using tissues, and covering coughs and sneezes (but not with the palm) are also essential to protect from being infected.
What can you do if you or your child gets whooping cough?
If you or your child has been infected with whooping cough, please stay home from work or school for at least five days after starting treatment. During this time, it’s important to avoid contact with vulnerable individuals. If you suspect that someone in your family has whooping cough, call a doctor for assistance. Our clinic is available 24/7 if you need medical help.
How is whooping cough treated?
Antibiotics can be used to treat whooping cough and prevent its further spread. However, in order to be most effective, treatment must begin early in the course of the disease, during the first one to two weeks before the episodes of numerous rapid coughs occur.
Conclusion
The resurgence of whooping cough in Hungary poses a significant public health challenge. However, with timely vaccination and the collective effort of the community, it is possible to prevent the spread of this disease and protect ourselves.
We urge you to take action by getting vaccinated and encourage others to do the same. For more information or to book a vaccination appointment, do not hesitate to contact us.
The article has been medically reviewed by: Dr. Marianna Hegyi, FirstMed’s Medical Director
