Whooping cough is on the rise with over 300 cases logged in Ireland this year.
That compares to just 18 overall in the whole of 2023.
The sharp increase is being linked to the low uptake of vaccination, despite it being free for children and pregnant women.
This is typically given to young children as part of the 6-in-1 vaccine they receive at two, four, and six months as this age group is the most vulnerable to getting very unwell with the highly infectious respiratory illness, which is caused by a bacterial infection, especially if unvaccinated, or if living with people who are unvaccinated.
Symptoms usually start with high temperature, runny nose, sore throat, and watery eyes. This progresses to a cough that can occur in episodes where it is hard to stop coughing, which can be followed by vomiting or your child might stop breathing for a short period of time.
If you think you or your child might have symptoms of whooping cough, contact your GP urgently or attend your nearest emergency department. Those with symptoms should also stay away from vulnerable people, such as young children under 12 months old, pregnant women, and people with underlying medical conditions. More information on whooping cough can be found on the HSE website here.
Those who are pregnant are also advised to speak to their GP, midwife, or obstetrician about getting the vaccine as it will help protect baby until they are old enough to get the jab themselves.
Dr Ruth McDermott, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Department of Public Health HSE Dublin and South East, has been discussing whooping cough and its prevention with our Brian Redmond on The KCLR Daily;
