Whooping cough

Whooping Cough

Experts warn that an outbreak of whooping cough is imminent and could potentially affect tens of thousands of Australians during the upcoming Christmas period. This highly contagious respiratory infection, also known as pertussis, is characterized by severe coughing fits that can last for weeks or even months. It primarily affects infants and young children, but adults can also contract the disease.

Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The initial symptoms resemble those of a common cold, including a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. However, after a week or two, the cough becomes more severe and is accompanied by a distinctive "whooping" sound when the person inhales.

To prevent the spread of whooping cough, it is crucial to ensure that you and your family are up to date with vaccinations. The pertussis vaccine is included in the routine childhood immunization schedule and is also recommended for pregnant women and adults who have not received a booster shot in the past ten years. Additionally, practicing good respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can help reduce the risk of transmission.