A warning has been issued regarding the increasing cases of whooping cough, especially in the UK. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis or the "hundred-day cough," is a bacterial infection that can be particularly serious, and in very rare cases, even fatal for very young children.

While many coughs are caused by common cold viruses, whooping cough is a bacterial infection. It typically starts with a mild cough or cold-like symptoms, but after one or two weeks, the symptoms intensify and can last longer, even up to several months. The key difference between a common cold and whooping cough lies in the intensity. The symptoms of whooping cough include severe coughing, especially at night, with distinctive loud "whoop" sounds when experiencing difficulty breathing. It can even lead to vomiting, facial redness, and breathing difficulties. Unlike a common cough, whooping cough is more contagious. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing complications and transmission.

This bacteria spreads through coughing and sneezing, so experts recommend that family members diagnosed with this disease should stay at home after three weeks of symptoms or 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. It is also recommended for individuals who have not been vaccinated to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

While whooping cough is most commonly seen in infants, adults can also become infected. The symptoms in adults are usually milder compared to children. Whooping cough is definitely a serious condition, especially for infants who haven't been vaccinated. Young children, in particular, may experience difficulty breathing during coughing, leading to complications such as pneumonia. In some rare and severe cases, it can even result in death. Even in adults, persistent coughing can cause weakness, sleep problems, and make daily activities challenging.