Waterford Parents: Urgent "100-Day Cough" Warning!
**It's a parent's worst nightmare: your little one just won't stop coughing. And it's been going on for weeks, maybe even months. This isn't just a regular cough, folks. This is the dreaded "100-Day Cough," and it's making its way through Waterford. **
What is this "100-Day Cough" anyway?
It's actually a pretty scary-sounding name for something called pertussis, or whooping cough. This highly contagious bacterial infection is making a comeback, and Waterford is no exception. The good news? It's completely preventable with the right vaccine.
**Here's the lowdown: **
- It's super contagious! You can catch it just by being close to someone who's infected, even if they don't seem sick.
- The cough is no joke! Think severe, hacking fits that can last for weeks, sometimes even months. It can be so bad that your child might vomit, turn blue, or even have trouble breathing.
- It can be dangerous for babies! Babies under a year old are at the highest risk of serious complications like pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death.
What can Waterford parents do?
1. Get your kids vaccinated!
- It's the single most important thing you can do to protect your child from pertussis. The DTaP vaccine is super effective and safe, and it's the best defense against this nasty bug.
- Talk to your doctor about making sure your child is up-to-date on their vaccinations.
2. Know the signs! * Look out for these symptoms in your child: * Coughing spells that get worse at night * Whooping sound after coughing * Vomiting after coughing * Trouble breathing * Bluish color around the mouth
3. Call your doctor right away!
- If your child has any of the symptoms listed above, don't wait. Get them seen by a doctor right away.
We're all in this together, Waterford!
Keep our little ones safe by getting them vaccinated and being aware of the signs of pertussis. Protect your family and your community!
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.