Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that poses significant risks to newborns and young infants. Characterised by severe coughing spells, it can lead to serious complications in babies, whose immune systems are still developing. Understanding whooping cough, its symptoms, and how to prevent it is crucial for protecting your newborn.
What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While it can affect individuals of all ages, newborns and young infants are at the highest risk of severe illness or even death.
The infection gets its name from the “whooping” sound that occurs when the patient struggles to breathe after a coughing fit. However, in newborns, this classic sound may not always be present.
Why Are Newborns at Risk?
Newborns are particularly vulnerable to whooping cough because:
- Their immune systems are immature, making it harder to fight off infections.
- They cannot receive the pertussis vaccine until they are six weeks old, leaving them unprotected during the critical first weeks of life.
- Their small airways are more susceptible to blockages caused by severe coughing fits.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough in Newborns
In newborns, the symptoms of whooping cough can differ from those in older children and adults. They might not exhibit the trademark “whoop.” Common symptoms include:
- Mild Cold Symptoms: A runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever may appear in the early stages.
- Severe Coughing Spells: Episodes of rapid, uncontrollable coughing can occur, sometimes followed by gagging or vomiting.
- Apnoea: Periods where the baby stops breathing momentarily. This is especially concerning in infants under six months old.
- Bluish Skin Tone: Caused by a lack of oxygen during coughing fits.
- Fatigue and Exhaustion: After a coughing episode, the baby may appear very tired or weak.
If you suspect your newborn has whooping cough, seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment can prevent complications.
How is Whooping Cough Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will typically:
- Review the baby’s symptoms and medical history.
- Perform a physical examination.
- Conduct tests, such as a swab of the nose or throat, to detect Bordetella pertussis.
Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and preventing the spread of the infection.
Complications of Whooping Cough in Newborns
Whooping cough can lead to severe complications in infants, including:
- Pneumonia: A common and potentially life-threatening secondary infection.
- Seizures: Caused by reduced oxygen levels during severe coughing episodes.
- Brain Damage: Resulting from prolonged oxygen deprivation.
- Dehydration and Malnutrition: Due to difficulty feeding during illness.
- Death: In extreme cases, particularly in infants under two months old.
Treatment for Whooping Cough
1. Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for whooping cough. If given early, they can reduce the severity and duration of the illness and prevent its spread to others. However, antibiotics cannot reverse damage already caused by the infection.
2. Supportive Care
- Hospitalisation: Newborns with severe symptoms may require hospitalisation for close monitoring and treatment.
- Oxygen Therapy: Helps infants who have trouble breathing during coughing fits.
- Fluids: To prevent dehydration and maintain nutrition.
Preventing Whooping Cough in Newborns
1. Maternal Vaccination
The best way to protect newborns is by vaccinating pregnant women with the Tdap vaccine during the third trimester. This provides passive immunity to the baby, offering protection in the first weeks of life before they can be vaccinated.
2. Vaccination of Close Contacts (Cocooning)
Encourage all family members, caregivers, and anyone in close contact with the baby to get the Tdap vaccine. This reduces the risk of transmitting the bacteria to the newborn.
3. Timely Infant Vaccination
Ensure your baby receives the DTaP vaccine series, starting at six weeks old. The full schedule typically includes doses at:
- 6 weeks
- 10 weeks
- 14 weeks
- Booster shots in childhood and adolescence
4. Good Hygiene Practices
Limit your newborn’s exposure to sick individuals, especially during the first few months. Wash hands frequently, and encourage visitors to do the same.
5. Avoid Public Places
Minimise visits to crowded or public spaces, such as shopping malls or daycare centres, where the risk of exposure to infections is higher.
What to Do If Your Newborn is Exposed to Whooping Cough
If your baby has been in close contact with someone diagnosed with whooping cough:
- Notify your healthcare provider immediately.
- Preventive antibiotics may be recommended, even if the baby shows no symptoms.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Contact your doctor or go to the emergency room if your newborn experiences:
- Difficulty breathing or apnoea
- Bluish skin or lips
- Severe coughing fits followed by vomiting
- Unresponsiveness or extreme fatigue
Conclusion
Whooping cough is a dangerous yet preventable illness that requires vigilance, especially in newborns. Understanding the symptoms, ensuring timely vaccinations, and following good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risks. By taking proactive measures and staying informed, parents can protect their little ones and ensure a healthy start to life.
FAQs
1. Can a vaccinated person still get whooping cough?
Yes, immunity from the vaccine can wane over time. However, vaccinated individuals usually experience milder symptoms.
2. Is the Tdap vaccine safe during pregnancy?
Yes, the Tdap vaccine is safe and recommended during pregnancy. It helps protect the baby in the early weeks of life.
3. Can newborns receive the pertussis vaccine?
Newborns can receive the DTaP vaccine starting at six weeks old. Until then, maternal vaccination and cocooning offer protection.
4. How long does whooping cough last in newborns?
The illness can last for several weeks, with the coughing phase often persisting for 6–10 weeks or more.
5. Can breastfeeding protect my baby from whooping cough?
Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and some immune support, but it cannot replace the protection offered by vaccination.
