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European countries have been grappling with a notable surge in whooping cough cases, as reported by health authorities. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) disclosed that in 2023 and the first quarter of 2024, instances of whooping cough soared to alarming levels, marking a tenfold increase compared to the preceding years.
According to the ECDC’s latest statement on Wednesday, nearly 60,000 cases of whooping cough, scientifically known as pertussis, were documented across European Union and European Economic Area nations during the specified period. Tragically, this surge has been accompanied by fatalities, with 11 infants and eight older adults succumbing to the infection.
Whooping cough, a bacterial respiratory infection, poses a significant health threat, particularly to vulnerable demographics such as infants and the elderly. The contagious nature of the disease, coupled with its potential severity, has underscored the importance of vaccination and public health measures.
The ECDC warned that despite high vaccination rates in many countries, larger whooping cough epidemics are anticipated every three to five years. The agency speculated that the slight drop in immunization observed during the COVID-19 pandemic might have contributed to the surge. Interestingly, the pandemic-induced restrictions on movement inadvertently led to a decline in the circulation of whooping cough, making the subsequent rise appear more pronounced.
Even though the vaccination efforts against pertussis have been extensive, the current numbers remain alarmingly high. Notably, the first quarter of 2024 has witnessed a staggering number of cases, matching the annual average between 2012 and 2019.
One crucial factor highlighted by the ECDC is the lack of natural immunity boost due to reduced exposure to whooping cough during the pandemic. This places infants under six months at heightened risk of contracting the infection.
ECDC Director, Andrea Ammon, emphasized the critical need to prioritize vaccination, especially to safeguard vulnerable populations. “It’s essential to remember the lives at stake, especially our little ones. Vaccines against pertussis have proven to be safe and effective,” stated Ammon.
In response to the surge, most European countries have reinforced routine immunization programs for children and pregnant women. Additionally, the ECDC suggested that some nations might consider administering booster shots to older children and adults to counteract waning immunity.
As Europe grapples with this resurgence of whooping cough cases, concerted efforts in vaccination and public health measures are imperative to mitigate the impact and protect vulnerable individuals from this preventable disease.
