What are the symptoms of whooping cough?
Symptoms of whooping cough usually develop about a week after infection and can include:
- Severe coughing fits that may end in a “whoop” sound
- A runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Low-grade fever
- Vomiting after coughing fits
What causes whooping cough?
Whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spread easily through droplets when a person with the infection coughs or sneezes.
How common is whooping cough?
Whooping cough is still common in some parts of the world. In the UK, there are usually several thousand cases reported each year, especially during outbreaks.
Who is more likely to get whooping cough?
Anyone can get whooping cough, but certain groups are more at risk, including:
- Young children, especially those under 1 year old
- People who have not been vaccinated or completed their vaccination schedule
- Adolescents and adults who had whooping cough years ago, as immunity can fade
How can I treat whooping cough?
Treatment for whooping cough mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and may include:
- Antibiotics, which can help shorten the illness and prevent spreading it to others
- Cough medicine to help control severe coughing fits
- Staying hydrated and resting to aid recovery
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How to prevent whooping cough?
The best way to prevent whooping cough is through vaccination. Vaccines offered in childhood help protect against the disease, and booster shots are recommended for older children and adults:
- Children usually receive their vaccinations as part of the routine childhood vaccination programme
- Pregnant women are advised to get vaccinated to protect their newborns
How to live with whooping cough?
If you or someone you know has whooping cough, it can take a few weeks to recover fully. It is essential to avoid spreading it to others by:
- Staying home from school or work until you recover
- Avoiding close contact with vulnerable people, especially young children
- Following your healthcare provider’s advice for managing symptoms
How quickly can I recover from whooping cough?
Most people start to feel better after a few weeks, but the cough can linger for several weeks to months. Recovery times can vary depending on the severity of the infection and your overall health.
What’s the outlook for whooping cough?
With treatment, most people recover fully from whooping cough. However, it is essential to monitor symptoms and follow health guidance, especially in young children, as complications can arise.
Final thoughts
Whooping cough is a serious illness but is manageable with the right treatment and prevention. If you are worried about symptoms or exposure to whooping cough, speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
