2024-03-02 22:31:30
Whooping cough has never been completely eradicated. In recent years, the Ministry of Health has only recorded a few cases, but we are now seeing an increase. Since the start of the year, 86 cases have already been reported to Health.
Read also:
Whooping cough: cases detected at Ermesinde high school
As the number of whooping cough cases is particularly high at the Ermesinde high school in Mersch, a vaccination day was organized there on Thursday. The parents of 135 students previously agreed to a booster vaccination. Local medical staff checked vaccination records to determine if further vaccination was necessary. If a student refused vaccination, it was also not carried out despite the parents’ agreement. The possibility of a booster vaccination was also given to teaching staff.
After the vaccination, the doctor and medical team remained on site for half an hour to monitor possible side effects and provide additional advice. The objective of this action is to offer students and teaching staff a safe vaccination that complies with current health standards, according to the ministry. Other vaccination actions are not planned for the moment, Health responded.
High risk of infection in case of whooping cough
This respiratory illness is caused by bacteria and is very contagious. It is transmitted by droplets when you cough, sneeze or talk. Children and adults are usually vaccinated against whooping cough. The Ministry of Health, however, recommends a regular booster vaccination in order to guarantee protection.
Read also:
Luxembourg on alert for whooping cough and measles
At first, the infection presents as a bad cold with a cough and a slight fever. Violent coughing fits may occur and the cough may last up to a few weeks. Newborns, infants and young children are particularly vulnerable. For them, whooping cough can be life-threatening, which is why vaccination is also recommended for pregnant women. In adolescents and adults, the infection manifests itself in less serious forms.
Whooping cough vaccination
Infants receive the first dose of vaccine two months after birth. Then, a second dose is administered at four months and a third at eleven months. The Ministry of Health recommends boosters between five and six years and another between fifteen and sixteen years. Thereafter, you must be vaccinated against whooping cough every ten years.
This article was originally published on the website of Luxembourg word.
Adaptation: Simon Martin
1709433986
#Whooping #cough #circulating