Whooping cough or pertussis, is an infection of the lining of the airways. It mainly affects the windpipe (trachea) and the two airways that branch off called the bronchi.
Symptoms of this disease are severe coughing fits, which in children are accompanied by a characteristic “whoop”, gasping for breath, coughing up thick phlegm. The disease can lead to otitis media, to pneumonia, seizures , and brain damage.
It is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect people from this infection.
Increase in cases
There were 665 laboratory confirmed cases of whooping cough in the UK between January and March of this year reported by The Health Protection Agency. This compares to 1,040 cases across the whole of 2011. Only 421 cases were confirmed in 2010.
Immunisation
The vaccine is available in our baby and pre school 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.
Other countries
Whooping cough is also increasing in other countries. It is an ongoing problem in Western Australia 2,137 cases have been reported. New South Wales 10,474, Victoria 7,180 and Queensland 6,937 and South Australia 2,022. There is also a rise in Chile, Canada, parts of the USA and in New Zealand, outbreaks reported in Nelson and Marlborough in the far north of South Island.
Free vaccine has been offered to parents and carers in some Australian states. It is recommended that Grandparents coming from this country, visiting young children are advised to have the vaccine.
Repevax vaccine to protect against whooping cough, diphtheria , tetanus and polio is available at the Travel Clinic Ltd. Cost £45.00 per dose.
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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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