Healthcare (Commonwealth Union) – Public Health Scotland (PHS) has released a new report today detailing the rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases in Scotland since late last year. This publication marks the beginning of a new monthly report series that will continue as long as whooping cough remains at the current levels.
The report indicates that between January 1 and July 15, 2024, there were 5,270 laboratory-confirmed whooping cough cases. While most cases are among individuals aged 15 and older, the highest incidence rate is found in those aged 10 to 14 years.
The report also, confirmed one death this year in an infant under one year old due to whooping cough.
With whooping cough expected to remain prevalent until the autumn, PHS is urging pregnant women to get immunized between the 16th and 32nd weeks of pregnancy.
Dr Nick Phin who is Director of Public Health Science at PHS says “Getting immunised during pregnancy is the best way to protect your baby in the first few vulnerable weeks of their life. All pregnant women are eligible for the whooping cough vaccine from week 16 of their pregnancy. The ideal time to get it is between weeks 16 and 32. The whooping cough vaccine is recommended every time you’re pregnant, even if you’ve had the vaccine before.”
This highly contagious respiratory infection, caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, primarily affects infants and young children, but can also impact adults. The resurgence of this disease has raised concerns among healthcare professionals and the general public, prompting a closer examination of the situation, its potential causes, and the measures being taken to combat the outbreak.
The pertussis vaccine is typically administered as part of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine series, which is given to children at various stages of their development, where the D stands for diphtheria, T stands for tetanus and aP stands for acellular pertussis.
The rise in whooping cough cases has prompted a response from health officials in Scotland. Public health campaigns are being launched to raise awareness about the condition. Furthermore, healthcare providers are urged to remain vigilant and promptly diagnose and treat suspected cases of pertussis to prevent further transmission.
Treatment for whooping cough typically involves a combination of antibiotics, supportive care, and vaccination rates are usually a focus.
Antibiotics: The primary treatment for whooping cough is the administration of antibiotics. These medications help to eliminate the bacteria and reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Early treatment, preferably within the first two weeks of infection, is most effective in controlling the symptoms and preventing the spread of the disease. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin. In some cases, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole may be used as an alternative.
Supportive Care: While antibiotics target the bacteria, supportive care focuses on managing the symptoms and preventing complications. This may include:
a. Rest: Encouraging the patient to get plenty of rest helps to conserve energy and promote healing. b. Fluids: Ensuring adequate hydration is essential, as it helps to thin the mucus secretions and makes coughing easier. c. Humidifiers: Using a humidifier can help to soothe the throat and make breathing more comfortable.
Oxygen therapy: In severe cases, supplemental oxygen may be required to support breathing.
The implications of the rise in whooping cough rates extend beyond the immediate health risks associated with the disease. As a highly contagious infection, pertussis can lead to outbreaks in schools, daycare centers, and other settings where individuals are in close proximity. This can result in significant disruptions to daily life, including school closures and a strain on healthcare resources. This substantial rise of Whooping cough cases, causing it to circulate in Scotland is likely to concern other parts of the UK.
