An alarming number of cases of whooping cough have been detected in Australia this year. In fact, as at 8th November, there have been 41,722 cases or about 130 cases per day recorded compared to just 2,454 cases in 2023.
According to the Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Child and Young Person’s Health, Dr Tim Jones, respiratory illnesses in the community are very common, with whooping cough being the most dangerous.
Parents of children under 12 years and those who are under immunised need to be aware of the whooping cough epidemic and take action if their child is symptomatic of respiratory illness.
Older patients also need to think about a booster immunisation for whooping cough.
Once you become infected with whooping cough, it takes about seven to 10 days for signs and symptoms to appear, though it can sometimes take longer. They’re usually mild at first and resemble those of a common cold:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Red, watery eyes
- Fever
- Persistent cough
After a week or two, signs and symptoms worsen. Thick mucus accumulates inside your airways, causing uncontrollable coughing. Severe and prolonged coughing attacks may:
- Provoke vomiting
- Result in a red or blue face
- Cause extreme fatigue
- End with a high-pitched “whoop” sound during the next breath of air
If you would like further information, click here If you would like to discuss with your GP, book an appointment by phoning 8370 9777 or book online.