Whooping cough is a common misconception that many people believe to be an incurable disease. However, this is not entirely true as vaccines are available to prevent it. Dr. Nguyen Le Nga, Medical Manager of VNVC Vaccination System, has stated that the vaccine program has helped control whooping cough in Vietnam, but the number of cases has recently increased due to reduced vaccination rates.
Whooping cough is an acute infectious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis bacteria and can affect anyone, including children and adults. It is transmitted through the respiratory tract and can lead to severe complications, especially in young children. The symptoms include gradually increasing coughs that can be severe enough to cause fractures and vomiting. Complications like respiratory failure, pneumonia, and encephalitis can occur, with younger children at higher risk of complications.
Misconceptions about vaccines are prevalent among people who believe there is no vaccine for pregnant women against whooping cough or that once their children receive the full vaccination regimen, they are immune for life and do not need booster shots. In reality, pregnant women can receive a combined shot against whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus to prevent the disease during pregnancy. Studies have shown that children under 3 months old are often infected by their mothers during childbirth or infancy leading to hospitalization and severe complications if not vaccinated on time. Dr. Nga recommends pregnant women to get vaccinated during the 2nd or 3rd trimester before giving birth to ensure their newborns’ safety from the disease.
Reputable health organizations recommend booster shots for children at different ages and adults every ten years to maintain immunity from whooping cough infection. Anyone can get whooping cough regardless of age or gender; therefore, it’s crucial for adults to stay up-to-date with vaccinations to protect themselves from infection and reduce the risk of spreading it further.
In conclusion, misconceptions about whooping cough prevention must be corrected by educating people about available vaccines such as those against diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) combination shot that provides protection during pregnancy and after birth for both mothers and newborns.