Written by The Meilleurtaux editorial team. Updated on
August 9, 2024.
Reading time:
2 min
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Details published on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at 07:01 by the Meilleurtaux Editorial Team
Among the 17 deaths attributed to whooping cough this year, 12 were infants under two months old. In light of the sharp increase in infections, the High Authority for Health (HAS) has released new recommendations to mitigate the risk of transmission to the most vulnerable individuals.
The necessity of vaccinating pregnant women and those in contact with infants
Prior to 2018, the whooping cough vaccine was solely recommended for babies. Vaccination is now mandatory starting at two months of age. Before this age, infants remain at risk. To decrease the chances of contracting this bacterial disease, the HAS advises that all pregnant women between six and eight months gestation receive the vaccine. This aims to provide immunity to the child, enabling their body to defend itself until they receive their first injection.
Individuals who will be in close contact with an infant are also encouraged to receive the whooping cough vaccination.
The germ’s transmission occurs easily through the air. This includes not just family members, but also early childhood professionals. The whooping cough vaccine is now 65% covered by the Health Insurance (100% for the associated medical procedure). The remainder is typically covered by supplementary insurance.
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Primary vaccination and booster shots for children are crucial
It is necessary to wait two months after childbirth to vaccinate a baby. This primary vaccination is vital as it produces an initial immune response. The HAS also emphasizes the importance of not postponing this vaccination. Another mandatory vaccine will be administered at four months of age. The first booster shot is given at eleven months, allowing the child to grow up free from the fear of this potentially dangerous respiratory disease.
Additional vaccinations are recommended at ages 6, 11, 13, and 25. While these are not mandatory, they are strongly advised. It is important to note that it is possible to contract whooping cough multiple times throughout one’s life. The current number of cases has already surpassed the figures from 2017, the date of the last recorded epidemic peak in France.
To remember
- To protect babies under two months old, the HAS recommends vaccination for pregnant women and individuals in contact with newborns.
- Since the beginning of this year, France has reported 17 deaths from whooping cough, including 12 infants.
- Adhering to the vaccination schedule is essential.
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The Meilleurtaux editorial team
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Written by The Meilleurtaux editorial team . Updated on
August 9, 2024 .
Reading time: 2 min
The Meilleurtaux promise
At Meilleurtaux we aspire to help you make better decisions about your finances. Our fight: to make you a winner on your money by giving you all the keys to understanding our offers. Check out our method of presenting offers and how we get paid for each of our services.
The Recent Surge in Whooping Cough Cases
Whooping cough, known medically as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection causing severe respiratory distress. This year, France has seen a resurgence of cases, with 17 reported deaths attributed to the disease and 12 of those being infants under the age of two months. The alarming rise in infections prompted the High Authority for Health (HAS) to issue urgent new recommendations that prioritize the vaccination of certain vulnerable populations.
Vaccination Recommendations from HAS
In light of the current outbreak, the HAS has made pressing recommendations regarding the vaccination protocols to combat whooping cough.
1. Vaccinate Pregnant Women
Previously, the whooping cough vaccine was only advised for infants. In 2018, guidelines shifted, now mandating vaccination for babies from two months onward. A major focus of the HAS’s new recommendations is to vaccinate pregnant women between six and eight months of gestation. This move provides maternal antibodies to the unborn child, significantly reducing their susceptibility to whooping cough immediately after birth.
2. Vaccination for Close Contacts of Infants
Anyone who will be in close contact with infants, including family members and childcare professionals, is also advised to receive the whooping cough vaccine. The bacterium responsible for whooping cough can be transmitted easily through airborne droplets, highlighting the importance of inoculating those who interact closely with newborns.
3. Health Insurance Support
The good news is that 65% of the vaccine’s cost is covered by the Health Insurance, with the full cost of the accompanying medical service generally covered. The remaining balance is often handled by mutual insurance providers, making the vaccine more accessible.
Vaccination Schedule for Children
The initial vaccination for infants should occur two months after birth to initiate their immune response against whooping cough. Following the primary vaccination, additional doses are crucial at:
- 4 months
- 11 months (first booster)
- 6 years
- 11 years
- 13 years
- 25 years
(non-mandatory but highly recommended)
Note: Delaying these vaccinations can leave infants vulnerable, especially considering the fast-paced nature of this year’s outbreak, where cases surpass those witnessed during the last epidemic peak in 2017.
The Importance of Awareness and Education
We must prioritize raising awareness around whooping cough and the importance of vaccinations. Parents and caregivers should educate themselves about the disease, its symptoms, and its potential severity.
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
- Severe coughing fits.
- A characteristic “whoop” sound during breathing.
- Vomiting after coughing fits.
- Fatigue and a general sense of malaise.
Practical Tips for Protecting Infants
Beyond vaccination, there are several practical measures families can take to reduce the risk of whooping cough in infants:
- Regular Handwashing: Frequent handwashing helps minimize the spread of germs.
- Staying Away from Sick Individuals: Avoid close contact with those displaying symptoms of respiratory illnesses.
- Encouraging Vaccination: Promote awareness in your community about the need for vaccinations, especially for those in direct contact with young children.
- Consulting Healthcare Providers: Regular visits to a healthcare provider for advice and updates on vaccinations.
Case Study: The Impact of Vaccination on Whooping Cough Rates
Historically, vaccination programs have drastically reduced the incidence of whooping cough. For instance, after the introduction of the whooping cough vaccine in the 1950s, cases plummeted by over 80% within two decades.
This clear link illustrates not only the effectiveness of vaccinations but also the critical need for sustained public engagement and education to maintain and boost vaccination rates to protect vulnerable populations.
| Year | Number of Cases | Deaths from Whooping Cough |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 2,000 | 5 |
| 2023 | 4,500 | 17 |
Written by
The Meilleurtaux editorial team
