The National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued a warning to health departments nationwide about the escalating threat of whooping cough, commonly known as Kali Khansi.
The NIH has instructed provincial and federal health departments, along with other relevant authorities, to take immediate action to curb the spread of this highly contagious disease.
In a letter addressed to concerned officials across the country, the institute has detailed precautionary measures to manage the anticipated surge in whooping cough cases in the coming months. Additionally, the letter highlights the potential strain on healthcare facilities due to the rising number of cases.
The letter emphasizes the significance of prompt vaccination to alleviate the burden and prevent complications from this contagious disease.
Here are some key points from the NIH advisory:
- Whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection, spreads through coughing and sneezing.
- The incubation period for whooping cough is typically 7 to 10 days but can extend up to 21 days. Infected individuals are most contagious in the early stages for up to about 2 weeks after the onset of coughing. Thus, the isolation period for whooping cough is 4 to 21 days.
- Initial symptoms include a mild cough, slight fever, runny nose, and a gradual escalation in cough intensity.
- Newborns and children are particularly vulnerable to severe complications, including fever.
- The whooping cough vaccine is mandatory for high-risk individuals and is part of the national immunization program.
- Citizens are advised to practice social distancing, maintain proper hygiene, and cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing. The National Institute of Health underscores the importance of early diagnosis through PCR tests and the critical role of antibiotics in reducing the severity of whooping cough.
Timely vaccination can significantly contribute to preventing additional health complications, such as pneumonia, ear infections, and psychological issues.