Whooping cough: key prevention and remedies

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a severe bacterial infection that was common in children before immunization. Your child may be feverish and have cold symptoms 7-10 days after contact. Then spasms of coughing develop with a typical high-pitched “whoop” as the child breathes in. Coughing is usually worse at night and may trigger vomiting. The illness can be serious in small babies.

Arrange to see your doctor immediately if you suspect your child has whooping cough.
Seek immediate medical help if:

* Your child becomes drowsy, has seizures, or is choking

* Your child has breathing problems, or his or her lips or tongue turn blue during a coughing spasm

PRACTICAL TECHNIQUE
Humidifying air in a room will soothe your child’s air passages and help to loosen mucus. Use one of the following methods.

* Place a humidifier by the child’s bed, or hang a wet towel close to a radiator.

* Sit with your child in the bathroom and run hot water in the bath or shower to create steam.

PREVENTION
An effective vaccine that protects against whooping cough is included in the childhood immunization programme. Make sure your child is immunized according to the recommended schedule.

What you can do yourself
Whooping cough can be distressing, so follow these steps to make your child more comfortable.

* Be calm and reassuring. If your child is having trouble sleeping, try to share the care at night.

* Offer plenty of clear fluids. Try honey and lemon, but don’t give honey to babies under 1 year.

* Give your child a painkiller (see DRUG REMEDIES) to reduce fever and discomfort. Don’t use cough medicines – they will not help.

* Humidifying the room (see PRACTICAL TECHNIQUE) may help to ease the cough.

* Offering your child soft, easy-to-swallow food in small portions will help to prevent vomiting.

* Keep your home free of irritants such as tobacco smoke and aerosol sprays.

Arrange to see your doctor if:
* If your child’s condition deteriorates

* To check that your child is fit to return to school; he or she may have coughing fits for several months after the illness.

DRUG REMEDIES
Painkillers will help to reduce discomfort and bring down a fever. Give paracetamol or ibuprofen , which are available in various forms. Your pharmacist will be able to advise you about which type is most suitable for your child.

Liquid paracetamol
You can give medicines containing liquid paracetamol to a child over 3 months old.