Understand and Prevent Whooping Cough
This summer, Hungary experienced a significant surge in whooping cough cases. The National Centre for Public Health (Nemzeti Népegészségügyi Központ) reported data indicating a sharp rise in suspected infections, with record numbers observed in late July, according to Portfolio.hu. This uptick has caused concern among both the public and healthcare workers, leading to increased focus on understanding this infectious disease and the necessary precautions to prevent its spread.
What kind of illness 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, coughing episodes become less frequent and less severe, and the baby gradually improves (this can take up to 3 months).
What are the possible long-term effects of whooping cough?
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 contaminated objects 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.
Safeguard yourself or your child against whooping cough
Vaccination: Shield from an early age
Vaccination is essential for preventing disease. In Hungary, getting vaccinated against whooping cough is mandatory, which reflects our philosophy at FirstMed: prioritizing prevention over treatment.
At FirstMed’s Budapest clinic, babies and children start receiving vaccinations at 2 months old, with complete immunization by 6 months. As part of our pediatric care and the First Year Plan, we give whooping cough vaccines along with other childhood shots during Well-Child-Check visits to protect our youngest patients, shares Dr. Zsófia Laufer, FirstMed’s pediatrician.
Getting the whooping cough vaccine 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 the vulnerable. This strategy provides immediate protection for the mother and newborn against whooping cough.
Power of booster vaccinations for adults
As we age, our immune system produces fewer antibodies, making us less protected against viruses and bacteria. Immunity from childhood vaccines diminishes over time, so it’s generally advised that adults receive booster vaccines. If you want to know which vaccinations are recommended for you at different ages, please contact our GPs, who can inform you. In addition to children, our clinic provides whooping cough vaccination for adults, which may be administered during a GP visit.
While vaccination greatly boosts the immune system’s ability to fight the disease, no vaccine offers complete protection. This emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated, not only to protect yourself but also to safeguard the community. To limit transmission, ensure all family members, especially infants and pregnant women, get their vaccines.
Good personal hygiene practices
In addition to vaccinations, maintaining good hygiene is equally important. Regularly wash your hands, use tissues, and cover coughs and sneezes (avoiding using your palms) to help prevent infections.
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.
How is whooping cough treated?
Antibiotics can be used to treat whooping cough and prevent its further spread. However, to be most effective, treatment must begin early in the course of the disease, during the first one to two weeks before episodes of numerous rapid coughs occur.
Conclusion
The resurgence of whooping cough in Hungary presents a serious public health concern. However, with prompt vaccination and community effort, we can prevent the spread of this disease and protect ourselves. For more details or to schedule a vaccination appointment, please contact us.
The article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Marianna Hegyi, FirstMed’s Medical Director
