The Chinese Agency for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported a significant increase in whooping cough cases in the country. In just the first three months of the year, over 32,000 infections and 13 deaths were recorded, a stark rise from the 1,400 cases reported during the same period in 2023. A CDC representative expressed concern about the potential for a resurgence of the disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. The disease is spread through respiratory droplets and poses a serious threat, particularly to infants, leading to severe symptoms and death. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 10 days after infection, starting with mild fever, a runny nose, and a cough that progresses to prolonged coughing fits and occasional whistling sounds when inhaling. Pneumonia is a common complication, with seizures and encephalopathy occurring less frequently. Infection usually peaks within 3 weeks of the onset of coughing, with coughing episodes lasting 4 to 8 weeks.
Diagnosing whooping cough can be challenging as initial symptoms resemble those of a common cold. Treatment currently involves antibiotics, while vaccination is considered the most effective prevention measure. WHO recommends a series of three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccines to reduce the risk of the disease, starting as early as 6 weeks of age. Subsequent doses are given at various intervals up to 18 weeks of age.
Vaccinating pregnant women has also been shown to be highly effective in preventing whooping cough in newborns. However, vaccination programs have faced challenges during the pandemic, with a decline in the proportion of children receiving the necessary doses of vaccines. Several countries have reported an increase in pertussis cases since mid-2023 as a result. Moving forward, maintaining vaccination rates will be crucial in controlling the spread of whooping cough and protecting vulnerable populations.