Here’s Everything You Need To Know About The 100-Day Cough Outbreak That Has Taken Over The UK

The UK is currently seeing the biggest outbreak of the 100-day cough in over a decade. What’s concerning is that this outbreak has been persisting for several months now. As per the UK Health Security Agency, nine babies have died from 100-day cough since November 2023 and 8,000 cases have been identified this year. Now, if you’re wondering what a 100-day cough is, its symptoms and precautions, then continue scrolling on.

What Is 100-Day Cough Or Whooping Cough?

100-day cough, also known as whooping cough and pertussis, is a bacterial lung and breathing tube infection. It is caused by a bacteria called Bordetella pertussis and is called a 100-day cough because it tends to persist for weeks or even months. As per a Time Out report, this infection is highly contagious and can spread easily through droplets from coughs or sneezes.

According to a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) report, around 8,000 cases of whooping cough have been identified in the UK this year. They reported 556 cases in January, 918 in February, 1,319 in March, and 1,888 cases in April. This trend shows how steadily the numbers have been growing over the last few months. The health agency has also reported 9 deaths of babies since November 2023 due to a 100-day cough.

The UKHSA has urged people in the UK to get vaccinated against the cough. They have mentioned that this infection is particularly threatening to very young children. Due to being highly contagious, they have asked parents to regularly get their young children vaccinated against the 100-day cough. Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for children, especially babies under six months. It can cause issues like dehydration, breathing difficulties, pneumonia and seizures, Time Out reported.

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Symptoms, Precautions & Everything You Need To Know

100-day cough or whooping cough’s symptoms resemble that of a common cold.
However, the coughs in this infection tend to progress to violent coughing fits that can last several minutes.

Here are some symptoms of a 100-day cough to watch out for –

1. Runny nose
2. Sore throat
3. Prolonger coughing bouts that tend to last for a few minutes
4. Making a ‘whoop’ sound while trying to breathe between coughs
5. Thick mucus
6. Red face

If someone is experiencing symptoms of a 100-day cough, then they should seek medical help immediately. Also, they should rest well, drink fluids, and can also take painkillers for some relief.

To stay safe, you can follow the following precautions-

1. Get vaccinated. There are vaccinations available against this infection. These vaccinations can be taken by kids and pregnant women as well.
2. Wash hands frequently and maintain good hygiene.
3. Cover your mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing.
4. Avoid as much contact as you can with infected people.
5. Seek medical help if you’re experiencing symptoms of a 100-day cough.

This information is not intended to scare you all. We intend to make you all aware and provide precautionary steps to stay safe and healthy!

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)