Khaberni - Health authorities in America warn about the escalation in whooping cough cases, with alarming increases in some counties, and call for enhanced prevention and vaccination.
Health authorities in the United States have warned of a significant rise in whooping cough infection rates nationwide, with clear outbreaks recorded in several states, including prominently in San Bernardino County, according to local media reports.
The public health department in San Bernardino County confirmed that this year has seen a significant jump in the number of infections compared to last year, with the number of reported cases approximately tripling, prompting health authorities to intensify awareness campaigns and urging residents to adhere to preventive measures to limit the spread of respiratory diseases.
Health officials clarified that whooping cough is a serious and highly contagious respiratory disease that can easily spread between individuals via airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing. Its symptoms can last for long periods, up to ten weeks, increasing its danger, especially among the more vulnerable groups.
The symptoms of the disease include a runny or blocked nose, a slight fever that may be below 38 degrees Celsius or without fever, along with severe coughing fits followed by a distinctive wheezing sound during inhalation, as well as breathing difficulties and sleep disturbances.
County officials noted that infants under 12 months of age, especially newborns, are most susceptible to serious complications, emphasizing the importance of vaccinating pregnant women with the Tdap vaccine to protect mothers and their children at early stages.
The health authorities also emphasized the need to adhere to the vaccination schedule, especially for tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough vaccines, warning that declining vaccination rates, particularly among children in San Bernardino County, directly contribute to an increased risk of the disease spreading within the community.
