A map of every case of Whopping cough across the UK to be reported in 2023 has been released amid reports that cases of the ‘100-day cough’ have more than tripled.
Whooping cough cases have increased by roughly 230% compared to last year, according to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures.
716 occurrences of the 100-day cough were reported between July and November 2023.
For context, this is three times higher than the same period in 2022 but is lower than pre-pandemic levels.
What is Whooping cough?
The NHS reports that Whooping cough (pertussis) is a bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes.
The infection can spread very easily and can lead to serious problems.
This is why the health service urges the public to get their babies and children vaccinated against it.
You can also get Whooping cough if you are an older child or an adult because neither vaccination nor infection can provide lifelong immunity.
What are the first signs of Whooping cough?
The NHS notes that the first symptoms of Whooping cough often appear like a cold.
These include a runny nose and a sore throat – but you should note that a high temperature is uncommon.
The health service then advises that after a week, the symptoms evolve into coughing bouts which last for a few minutes and are usually worse at night.
Other tell-tale signs include a “whoop” sound which can be heard in the gasp for air between coughs. This is more prevalent among babies rather than adults.
The coughing could also cause some difficulty breathing as well as some thick mucus which can make you vomit.
Babies and children may turn grey or blue after coughing.
Meanwhile, adults are most likely to go red in the face.
The NHS says that the cough can last for several weeks or months.
For more information and guidance, visit the NHS website.
Recommended reading
VapoRub, Olbas, garlic, onion - which old wives tale completely cured my cold?
Risk of mosquito-borne diseases looms for UK, health officials warn
When should I go to a GP or call NHS 111?
The NHS says that you make an urgent GP appointment or seek help from NHS 111 in the following situations:
- your baby is under 6 months old and has symptoms of whooping cough
- you or your child have a very bad cough that is getting worse
- you've been in contact with someone with whooping cough and you're pregnant
- you or your child has been in contact with someone with whooping cough and have a weakened immune system
The health service also noted that since Whooping cough can spread very easily, it is best to call the GP before you go in.
The medical professionals may suggest talking over the phone instead.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here