Whooping cough cases are rising in Ireland
As whooping cough cases continue to rise, parents are being urged to be as careful as possible when caring for their children.
Earlier this year, the HPSC confirmed that 150 children were hospitalised with the infection in 2024.
514 cases were already diagnosed in 2024 with more expected in the winter as the highly contagious infection spreads.
Whooping cough is caused by a bacteria called Bordetella pertussis.
It can last up to three months which is why it’s often referred to as the ‘100-day cough’.
The main symptoms of whooping cough include long bouts of coughing, as well as choking as your child may struggle to catch their breath.
The bacterial illness can be extremely serious in young children, but most cases are treated with antibiotics.
How is the infection treated?
According to the HSE, the main treatment for this infection is antibiotics.
Some people use herbal teas to soothe symptoms but you should never give them to infants, especially if they’re under six months old.
Over-the-counter cough medicine also won’t work, the HSE has warned parents.
If your child has the ‘100-day cough’ then you should follow the expert advice below:
- keep them at home until they’ve been on antibiotics for 5 days or until they feel well again
- make sure they rest and drink lots of fluids
- do not worry if they do not feel like eating much
Parents have been urged to seek urgent medical care if they’re concerned about their child and whooping cough. Many children will be hospitalised with the infection, but the whooping cough vaccine is available in Ireland.
The HSE has stressed that the vaccine is the best way to protect your child and family from the contagious infection.
You can read more about the whooping cough vaccine here.
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