What is ‘100 day cough’? Why is it in news?

100-day cough is another name for whooping cough, which is medically also referred to as pertussis.

It is called a 100-day cough because it can last for weeks or months and starts like a common cold.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.

It is characterized by severe coughing fits, often ending in a distinctive “whooping” sound when the person breathes in. The disease is particularly dangerous for infants who may experience complications. Vaccination is a primary preventive measure, and treatment typically involves antibiotics. Despite vaccination efforts, outbreaks can still occur, emphasizing the importance of immunization in preventing the spread of this potentially serious respiratory infection.

Over 600 cases of whooping cough in England and Wales so far in 2024, marks the biggest outbreak at the start of the year in at least a decade, the DailyMail reported. The initial signs of the infection are a runny nose and sore throat. The infection can be life-threatening for infants and kids. It has a 3% fatal rate in newborns and most babies under six months with whooping cough are hospitalized with complications, such as dehydration, breathing difficulties and pneumonia.

Whooping cough (pertussis) typically progresses through several stages. Initially, symptoms resemble those of a common cold, including a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. As the infection advances, severe coughing fits develop, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound when inhaling. Vomiting and exhaustion can follow intense coughing episodes. The coughing spells can last for weeks, leading to significant respiratory distress. In infants, symptoms may vary, with a higher risk of complications.

How to prevent whooping cough?

Whooping cough is extremely contagious. Preventing whooping cough (pertussis) primarily involves vaccination. The vaccine, administered to infants and young children, provides protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Boosters are recommended for adolescents and adults to maintain immunity. Pregnant individuals are also advised to receive the vaccine during each pregnancy, passing protective antibodies to newborns. Additionally, practicing good respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can reduce the spread of the bacteria.