Britons returning from holidays abroad are being issued an urgent health warning as cases of a Victorian-era disease surge across the UK. Health experts are urging travellers to remain vigilant for symptoms of whooping cough, dubbed the '100-day cough' due to its persistent nature.
The UK Health Security Agency has reported a dramatic increase in pertussis cases, with numbers already tripling those recorded throughout the entire previous year. This alarming spike has prompted serious concerns among medical professionals.
What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection affecting the lungs and breathing tubes. It spreads easily through coughs and sneezes, making it particularly dangerous in crowded places like airports and aeroplanes.
The illness typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose and sore throat. After about a week, it progresses to intense coughing bouts that can last for several minutes, often worse at night. The characteristic 'whoop' sound occurs as sufferers gasp for air between coughs.
Why the Sudden Surge?
Health officials attribute the recent outbreak to several factors:
- Reduced population immunity following the COVID-19 pandemic
- Lower vaccination uptake in recent years
- Increased international travel and mixing of populations
- The cyclical nature of the disease, which typically peaks every 3-4 years
The infection can be particularly dangerous for babies and young children, potentially leading to pneumonia, dehydration, seizures, and breathing difficulties.
Protecting Yourself and Your Family
The NHS recommends vaccination as the most effective protection against whooping cough. The vaccine is routinely offered to:
- Pregnant women between 16-32 weeks
- Babies at 8, 12 and 16 weeks old
- Children aged 3 years 4 months
If you suspect you or a family member has developed symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical advice promptly. Early treatment with antibiotics can help reduce the severity and prevent further spread.
With holiday travel in full swing, health experts emphasise the importance of awareness and prevention to control this concerning outbreak.
