Whooping Cough is Back: A Parent's Guide

We're seeing a big jump in whooping cough cases, especially in the Middle Atlantic states. As of early October, there were around 17,579 cases compared to just 3,962 last year! This bacterial infection, also known as pertussis, spreads like wildfire through coughs and sneezes. It's most dangerous for babies, those with weak immune systems, and people with severe asthma. Whooping cough starts like a cold, but then it gets worse. You might have a low fever, runny nose, and a mild cough for a week or two. After that, it turns serious with violent coughing fits that make you gasp for air—that's the whooping sound it's named for. In babies, it might show up as pauses in breathing.

If you think you or your kid has whooping cough, see a doctor right away. Antibiotics are the best treatment, but they work better the sooner you start them. Doctors check your vaccine history and might do blood tests or a swab to confirm the diagnosis. Vaccines are the best way to prevent whooping cough. Kids get them at various ages, and adults should get a booster every 10 years. Pregnant women should get the vaccine late in their pregnancy to protect their newborns.

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