Olympics risk: spreading whooping cough

Surges in the number of whooping-cough cases are seen every three to four years. This latest UK outbreak began at the end of 2011, and it has been reported throughout Cambridge, affecting both adults and children

Child health experts say a booster dose of whooping cough vaccine may be needed to deal with the biggest outbreak in 20 years in the UK which has led to the deaths of five babies.

Before routine vaccination in 1957, whooping cough outbreaks in the UK were on a huge scale. It could affect up to 150,000 people and kill 300 in one year.

Whooping cough can be a very serious illness, especially in the very young. In older people it can be unpleasant but does not usually lead to serious complications. It can however last for up to three months.

The earliest signs are similar to a common cold, which then develops into a cough and can even result in pneumonia.  Babies may turn blue while coughing due to a lack of oxygen. The illness is caused by a species of bacteria, Bordetella pertussis.

The vaccine is available in our baby and preschool vaccination programme in the United Kingdom.    The Pre-school booster will help protect the child but also helps reduce the transmission to the younger population.    It is also available for adults who may be at risk or travelling to other countries where it is requested.

The Department of Health's Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation is considering ways to tackle the outbreak, such as giving teenagers or pregnant women a booster jab.

Vaccinations are now recommended for medics working with young babies to protect them and prevent them from spreading the infection.

Repevax vaccine to protect against whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus and polio is available at The Travel Clinic Ltd.  Cost £45.00 per dose.  Please contact 01223 367362 or enquiries@travelclinic.ltd.uk if you would like more information or to book an appointment with a nurse.
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