Whooping cough outbreak in Britain: Sound, vaccine and everything you need to know as five babies die

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Five babies have died after being diagnosed with whooping cough in England, prompting a warning about the disease.

So far in 2024, more than 2,700 cases of whooping cough have been reported across England – more than three times as many as all of last year.

New figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that 2,793 cases had been reported by the end of March.

That compares with 858 cases in all of 2023.

According to the UKHSA, there have been five child deaths between January and the end of March.

UKHSA consultant epidemiologist Dr. Gayatri Amirthalingam said: “Whooping cough can affect people of all ages, but for very young babies it can be extremely serious.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families who have so tragically lost their babies.”

According to the preliminary data, approximately 1,319 cases were reported in March alone.

The bacterial infection, also known as whooping cough, or ‘hundred day cough’, can be particularly serious for very young children, for whom it can even be fatal in very rare cases.

Numbers are rising every few years, and the post-pandemic increase in social contact is thought to be playing a role at this time.

Always consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment advice, and seek urgent help if anyone experiences signs of breathing difficulties.

What does whooping cough sound like?

Although many coughs are caused by the common cold virus, whooping cough is a bacterial infection (medically known as whooping cough).

“Whooping cough often seems like a normal cough or cold at first, but symptoms may worsen after a week or two,” says Dr. Kathryn Basford of online doctor Zava. “While a typical cough goes away within a few weeks and feels mild, whooping cough can last much longer, even up to a few months.

“The main difference to look out for between a mild cough and whooping cough is the intensity. Whooping cough occurs in strong coughing fits, especially at night, and mainly involves a high-pitched ‘whoop’ while struggling to breathe. It can even lead to vomiting, a bright red face and difficulty breathing.

“And unlike normal cough, whooping cough is much more contagious. If you have not received a whooping cough vaccination, it is definitely worth seeing a doctor to see if you can get one. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and spread.”

How do you catch whooping cough?

“Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease, meaning it spreads through the air through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can be inhaled by others nearby,” says Basford.

“Additionally, the bacteria can linger on surfaces touched by an infected individual, causing indirect transmission if someone else touches the surface and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth. That’s why frequent hand washing and good respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, are crucial to prevent the spread.”

Is whooping cough contagious to adults?

Basford explains: “Although whooping cough is most commonly associated with young children, it is still possible for adults to contract the disease. Adults generally experience milder symptoms than children.”

Can whooping cough be serious?

“Whooping cough can certainly be serious, especially for young babies who have not yet been vaccinated. Younger children in particular may have difficulty breathing during coughing fits, which can lead to complications such as pneumonia and, in some rarer, more serious cases, death,” warns Basford. “Even in adults, constant coughing can be debilitating, cause sleep problems and make daily activities difficult.”

How else can you prevent it?

“The best way to prevent severe whooping cough is through vaccination – the vaccine is included in the routine NHS vaccination schedule and is given to babies and then as part of pre-school boosters. Pregnant women should also get the vaccination to protect their baby once it is born; this is given between 16 and 32 weeks.”

How do you treat whooping cough?

“The treatment of whooping cough depends on a number of factors, such as your age and how long you have had whooping cough. Babies under six months are at greater risk of complications and often require hospitalization and specific care,” says Basford.

“If you are diagnosed early (within three weeks), antibiotics can help. Medication won’t necessarily make you feel better faster, but it does play a crucial role in stopping the spread. However, if it has been more than three weeks, antibiotics may not help as much because chances are you are no longer contagious.

“The focus is on managing symptoms: getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and using a cool mist humidifier to soothe the cough. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can also help with discomfort.”