Whooping cough creating havoc among the world!

 Hey Readers!

Have you heard about the latest outbreak that has occurred in more than 5 countries have seriously reported deaths that too young.

Yes! I am talking about China, The Philippines, Czech Republic, The Netherlands, UK and USA, where the advanced cases of whooping cough are reported and even 2 deaths have been observed in China as well.

As per China's National Disease Control and Prevention, there is 20 times higher cases than previous year.

So, now sharing the details of this life-threatening condition:

What is Whooping Cough?

Also known as Pertussis, which is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis.



It is characterized by coughing fits, followed by a whooping sound, gasping for air,  hence the name.

Spread of Infection:-

It is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.



Signs and symptoms:-

This condition presents in 2 stages:

Early Stage/Stage 1:- In babies and young children

  • Runny or stuffed up nose

  • High Fever(104 degrees)
  • Mild, occasional coughs
  • Apnea
  • Cyanosis

Late stage/Stage 2:-


  • Rapid, violent coughing fits with a whooping sound
  • Vomit during or after cough fits
  • Struggle to breathe
  • Completely drained out after a strong cough fit
Diagnosis:-

Doctors diagnose whooping cough by considering if you have been in contact with someone who has whooping cough and by doing a

  • History of typical signs and symptoms
  • Physical exam
  • Laboratory test of a mucus sample from the back of the throat
  • Blood test
Prevention:-
  • Vaccination under the name of DPT
  • Cover their mouth or nose while cough or sneeze
  • Washing hands more often
Treatment:-
Medical treatment available in the form of antibiotics named azithromycin, erythromycin and clarithromycin. 


Treatment modalities at home:-
  • Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
  • Keep your home free from irritants – as much as possible – that can trigger coughing, such as smoke, dust, and chemical fumes.
  • Use a clean, cool mist humidifier to help loosen mucus and soothe the cough.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.


  • Eat small meals every few hours to help prevent vomiting.


  • Get plenty of fluids, including water, juices, and soups, and fruits to prevent dehydration (lack of fluids).
  • Do not take cough medicine unless your doctor recommends them. Giving cough medicine probably will not help and is often not recommended for children younger than 4 years old.



Disclaimer:- This is for informational purposes.


Advice:- Kindly consult your physician if any of the above mentioned symptoms.

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