You may be aware that there has been an outbreak in the Darlington area.
Whooping cough (also known as ‘pertussis’) is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the lungs and airways.
The disease is highly infectious and most serious in babies under the age of 12 months.
Babies are at greatest risk of infection until they can have at least two doses of the vaccine (minimum 4 months old) as the mother’s antibodies do not provide reliable protection.
It’s very rare for children who have been immunised against whooping cough to get the disease – and if they do, it’s usually not as serious.
The condition usually begins with a persistent dry and irritating cough that progresses to intense bouts of coughing. These are followed by a distinctive ‘whooping’ noise, which is how the condition gets its name.
Other symptoms include a runny nose, raised temperature and vomiting after coughing.
The incubation period for whooping cough is roughly between six to 21 days with its infectious period lasting from the first signs of the illness until about six weeks after coughing starts.
If you have any of these symptoms, please book an appointment with your Doctor.
Please advise our Reception staff upon arrival for your appointment regarding whooping cough.
FAQ’S
How long until my results are back?
Results take approximately 2-3 days.
What should I do whilst waiting for my results?
It is suggested that you stay home until you receive a negative swab result.
A baby is due in the family, What do we need to do?
If it has been 10 years since your last whooping cough booster it is recommended you get another at least 4 weeks before the baby is due.
We have the vaccine available please speak to your doctor.
Should I have a booster?
Children who have been fully immunised until their early 20’s, then every 10 years it is recommended to have a whooping cough booster.
Pregnant women are eligible for a free whooping cough booster in their third trimester.
We have the vaccine available please speak to your doctor.
