What is whooping cough?
Express, January 2024
Dr Natalia Bogatcheva, Private GP at The London General Practice, offers an insight into the apparent rise in whooping cough in the UK. With Jeremy Clarkson recently revealing he has been suffering from “the 100 day cough” there is concern that whooping cough cases in the UK are on the rise.
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a contagious bacterial disease that can affect all ages, however tends to be more serious in babies, young people and those who are immunosuppressed or have certain chronic medical conditions. It can cause ongoing health issues in the vulnerable groups.
Symptoms of whooping cough include a cough, runny nose, congestion and fever. Symptoms may worsen over time with the development of a persistent, hacking cough, vomiting and fatigue secondary to the coughing fits.
Infants may not have a cough but may experience breathing difficulties. Babies, children and other high risk groups in particular are advised to get vaccinated against whooping cough.
“… the vast majority “recover with no ongoing issues” unlike in more vulnerable groups such as babies and children, who could suffer from further health complications and potential deaths.”
To find out more about whooping cough read the full article below. If you are concerned that you may have whooping cough and would like to make an appointment with a private Harley Street GP then please get in touch with us here.