Clinicians have been advised to be on the alert for cases, and
conduct diagnostic testing where appropriate – Photo: Flickr / Focus Project DE
Clinicians have been advised to be on the alert for cases, and
conduct diagnostic testing where appropriate – Photo: Flickr / Focus Project DE
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has notified the public about an outbreak of Pertussis, after a spike in cases put experts on high alert. Concerningly, the disease is largely affecting young children and infants.
Otherwise known as ‘whooping cough’, Pertussis cases can be ‘severe and uncontrollable’. Many patients are exhausted as a result of continuous and violent coughing fits, with some even vomiting after a particularly traumatic episode.
According to the NICD, Pertussis outbreaks are ‘relatively common’ in vaccinated populations:
“Pertussis, commonly known as ‘whooping cough’ is a vaccine-preventable disease. Immunity following vaccination is thought to last for up to six years. Episodic increases in pertussis cases occur in vaccinated populations every three-to-five years, however.”
NICD statement
According to data provided by the Institute, there have been some troubling signs this winter. Around three-quarters of all cases reported this year have been logged since the start of June. However, approximately HALF of this cohort were registered in September alone.
Following a surge in cases, the NICD is now encouraging parents to seek medical advice as soon as possible, should their children display any signs of having Pertussis. The symptoms have been outlined in the latest guidance:
“Pertussis symptoms may vary from person to person. Initial signs and symptoms are similar to the common cold and may include nasal congestion, runny nose, mild sore throat, mild dry cough and minimal or no fever.”
“Days later, the cough can become more severe and is characterised by episodes of paroxysms (violent and uncontrolled coughing that is exhausting and painful) followed by a whooping sound and/or vomiting after coughing.” | NICD statement