SEE AMAZON.COM DEALS FOR TODAY
Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. “Europe whooping cough epidemic”
2. “Whooping cough cases Europe”
In 2023 and the first quarter of 2024, European countries experienced a significant increase in whooping cough cases, with 10 times more reported than in previous years. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control revealed nearly 60,000 cases in total, resulting in 11 infant deaths and eight among older adults. Whooping cough, a bacterial infection of the lungs and airways, poses a serious threat to young babies and older individuals. The rise in cases may be attributed to a slight decline in vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. To combat this surge, the ECDC recommends boosting immunity through vaccinations for children, pregnant women, and potentially older individuals.
1. Pertussis epidemic in Europe
2. Whooping cough surge in Europe
Surge in Whooping Cough Cases Across Europe
European countries are currently facing a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with numbers reaching ten times higher than in previous years. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has reported nearly 60,000 cases in the European Union and European Economic Area countries during the first quarter of 2024, with a total of 11 deaths in infants and eight among older adults.
Understanding Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs and airways. This highly contagious disease poses a serious threat, especially to young babies and older individuals. The infection is endemic in Europe, and periodic outbreaks are expected every 3-5 years, even in countries with high vaccination rates.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The slight dip in immunization rates during the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the rise in whooping cough cases. The circulation of the disease was significantly reduced during the pandemic due to restrictions on movement, leading to a lack of natural immunity boosting in the population. As a result, the current surge in cases appears more pronounced.
Rising Numbers and Historical Significance
The number of whooping cough cases reported in the first three months of 2024 has already surpassed the average annual cases recorded between 2012 and 2019. The European population’s limited exposure to the infection during the pandemic has left many vulnerable, particularly infants under six months of age.
The Importance of Vaccination
ECDC Director Andrea Ammon emphasizes the critical role of vaccination in preventing whooping cough. Vaccines against pertussis have been proven safe and effective, offering protection to individuals of all ages. Most European countries have routine immunization programs for children and pregnant women, but the ECDC suggests considering boosters for older children and adults to maintain immunity.
It is essential to prioritize the health and safety of vulnerable populations, such as young infants, by ensuring widespread vaccination coverage against whooping cough.
(Reporting by Jennifer Rigby; Editing by Sharon Singleton and Kevin Liffey)
