07 Dec 2023 | 12:53 PM UTC
UK: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas, especially London, through early December
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in the UK through early December. London is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in the UK, with a total of 716 cases reported July. 9-Nov. 26. This is compared to the 217 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. London (182 cases) is most affected region, followed by North West (113 cases), Yorkshire and the Humber (82 cases), South East (78 cases), and Wales (51 cases). Other areas reporting disease activity include West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, North East, and South West. Health officials are urging pregnant women to get vaccinated against the disease to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Dec. 7.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against pertussis or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccination coverage in the UK is estimated at 92 percent, which is within the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported roughly 553 pertussis cases nationwide in the UK in 2022, 527 cases in 2021, 1,412 cases in 2020, and 3,994 cases in 2019.
Pertussis - also known as "whooping cough" - is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Symptoms typically appear 7-10 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms range from mild illness with low-grade fever and occasional coughing in the early stage, to vomiting, exhaustion, and severe fits of rapid coughing in the later stage. Infants and children up to 4 years old are at highest risk and typically suffer the most severe symptoms.
